1961: Interview with astronomer Dr James Ring
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Dr Ring is an astronomer engaged in research into improving optical instruments for studying the universe. Encouraged by the Soviet space missions, he is convinced that a permanent observatory based on the Moon would be of immense value to his fellow astronomers. He also believes that such a telescope might be available in as little as five years.
Despite the optimism of scientists in the early 1960s and the achievement of Nasa's moon missions, a permanent lunar base failed to materialise. Research into moon-located technology continues, however. In 2008, scientists from the Optics Laboratory of Laval University in Quebec, Canada, announced research into a large 'liquid mirror' telescope that could be assembled on the Moon utilising materials found there. Such a telescope might be key to the construction of a permanent lunar observatory.
Originally broadcast 28 March 1961.