Exploratory Research in the Signal Corps

This paper reviews the USASRDL exploratory-research program from its inception in 1958 to its current state of development. The treatment centers about three main parts: background and philosophy of exploratory research in the Signal Corps, implementation of the program at USASRDL, and major achievements. The introductory portion deals with a discussion of the motivation that led to a delineation of exploratory research as a modified basic-research concept, and the activation of an exploratory-research program. This discussion is followed by an exposition of the program and of the scientific areas that are currently being investigated. The article then gives a summary of the important accomplishments resulting from the program. A brief report is also given of plans for the initiation of new research tasks in the future.