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The Rocket Attack Computer System That Never Was // PREVIEW
Aug 4, 2024
Discover the groundbreaking SAGE computer network, designed to revolutionize Cold War air defense against nuclear threats. Explore how this system streamlined radar data for effective enemy tracking. Uncover the history of 1950s radar technology and the human stories of those stationed at remote bases during heightened tensions, illuminating both the technological advancements and the personal sacrifices involved.
06:58
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Quick takeaways
- The SAGE computer network was a groundbreaking advancement in air defense, streamlining the detection and targeting of enemy bombers during the Cold War.
- Despite its initial success, SAGE faced challenges adapting to new threats like intercontinental ballistic missiles, leading to its eventual obsolescence by the late 1960s.
Deep dives
The Development and Purpose of the SAGE System
The SAGE computer network was developed after World War II to address emerging threats from the Soviet Union, particularly following their successful nuclear tests. Costing more than the Manhattan Project, this system aimed to enhance America's air defense capabilities, transitioning from localized radar systems to a centralized network that could manage airspace effectively. SAGE integrated various radars across vast geographic areas, allowing for coordinated responses in detecting and targeting enemy bombers. By automating the tracking of bombers and directing anti-aircraft missiles and fighter interceptors, SAGE represented a significant technological advancement in aerial defense during the Cold War era.
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