Atomic Age Declassified (2019)
S01E02 Spies in Space
Episode Overview
In the episode SPIES IN SPACE, we discover that secrecy can sometimes yield significant advantages. Just two years ago, the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) revealed details about a covert program from the 1960s aimed at launching a manned spy platform into orbit, known as MOL—short for Manned Orbiting Laboratory. While the Apollo missions captured public interest and acclaim during the race to the Moon, those involved with MOL operated quietly behind the scenes, equipping America with crucial intelligence for a perilous world. Marking the first time this story is told on television, SPIES IN SPACE combines rare footage from secret satellite programs with insights from experts and MOL crew members, highlighting these overlooked pioneers of the space race.
