President Eisenhower Presents the First Voice Transmission from the First Communications Satellite

12/19/1958
An Atlas-B missile (s/n 10B) being prepared to launch the SCORE satellite from Cape Canaveral LC-11.

An Atlas-B missile (s/n 10B) being prepared to launch the SCORE satellite from Cape Canaveral LC-11.

On December 19, 1958 President Eisenhower's brief Christmas greeting was transmitted from the SCORE (Signal Communication by Orbiting RElay) satellite. This was the first voice transmission from the world's first purpose-built communications satellite.  Via an on-board tape recorder Eisenhower said:

"This is the President of the United States speaking. Through the marvels of scientific advance, my voice is coming to you from a satellite traveling in outer space. My message is a simple one: Through this unique means I convey to you and all mankind, America's wish for peace on Earth and goodwill toward men everywhere."

 

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