December 10, 1993 – CBS World News Roundup – Gordon Skene Sound Collection –
December 10, 1993 – A big day for science and exploration, starting with news that Princeton University had conducted it’s first successful experiment with Fusion Energy generating the worlds largest reaction. A four-second burst equal to about 3 million watts. While the device consumed about twice as much energy as it produced, scientists at the lab called the experiment an important breakthrough and a milestone in Fusion Energy development. Science had long dreamed of finding a cheap and inexhaustible source of energy and this was looking to be the solution.
Meanwhile Shuttle Endeavor had repaired and rejuvenated the Hubble Telescope, putting it back in its own orbit, ready to see a clearer picture of the universe. During five space walks, the astronauts proved that complex in-space servicing could be done. They gave the telescope new solar power panels, an upgraded camera and the prescription it needed to get a clearer picture of the universe. It was hoped this successful mission would be the much-needed shot-in-the-arm for NASA’s Space program; a far cry from the earlier condemnation, when Hubble produced embarrassing results – it was no longer the Techno Turkey it was forced to live with until this day.
Elsewhere – A Wisconsin Air National Guard KC- 135 Tanker exploded during a refueling operation at Milwaukee’s Mitchell Field, where at least five people are reported missing.
Consumer prices rose in November a modest .2 of 1%, restrained by declining energy costs. For the year to date, consumer prices have been up 2.8% at an annual rate.
Police in St. Louis were suspecting a serial child killer was on the loose with the discovery of a 10 year old girl, found in a trash-strewn alley. She had been abducted 8 days earlier when she was on her way to put up Christmas decorations. The FBI and St. Louis Police were piecing a puzzle together which began with the abduction and murder of a 9 year old girl who was found 2 weeks earlier. And a memorial service was held for Polly Klaas, the Petaluma California girl abducted and murdered in October. The church where the memorial was held was filled to overflowing as so many had come to know Polly Klaas. Governor Pete Wilson promised tougher laws would be coming in the wake of this tragedy.
And that’s just a small sample of what went on, this December 10th 1993 as reported by The CBS World News Roundup.
