Back in the 60’s, my dad worked for Bendix in Indiana. At some time he visited the site where ECHO was being put together. It was a huge balloon made out of mylar and plated with aluminium on one side and gold on the other. It was launched into orbit and inflated to a very low pressure. It was used to bounce radio signals off of. I remember that he brought a piece back to show me. The point is, I found what I think is the sample. If any one out there thinks they could identify it, I would be glad to send a piece.
the material was 0.0127 mm thick mylar polyester film i dont remember it being gold on one side…i’d love to see a piece of it though
Moggie, from what I understand the mylar used in Echo 1 was all silver (both sides). I know someone who has a piece.
You might try posting this in the forums at www.collectSPACE.com (Hardware and Flown Items section). Hope that helps.