Soviet pilot-cosmonaut Vladimir Dzhanibekov, a twice Hero of the Soviet Union, recently reflected on the challenging beginnings of space cooperation between the USSR and the United States. He described the initial interactions with American colleagues as “not easy,” noting that the reception at NASA facilities was “not very friendly.”
During a press conference commemorating the 50th anniversary of the historic “Soyuz-Apollo” mission, Dzhanibekov provided a vivid example of the prevailing atmosphere. He recalled seeing a chalk drawing on a classroom board in one of NASA`s open offices. The image depicted an inverted “Space Shuttle” with bombs falling from its payload bay onto a map of the Soviet Union.
Beyond symbolic gestures, the cosmonaut also spoke of tangible signs of distrust. Soviet crew members reportedly noticed signs warning “Caution, Russians” and were subjected to unexpected inspections of their personal belongings. Surveillance was also evident, according to Dzhanibekov.
“I`d run out for a workout, and a specialist from the next building would pop out after me, trying to catch up or run at a certain distance. All the walls were covered with tape recorders, recording everything we said to each other,” Dzhanibekov stated.
Despite these initial difficulties, the cosmonaut highlighted that relations between the USSR and the USA in space gradually improved over time. Increased contact and joint programs emerged, partly facilitated by the formation of the international Association of Space Explorers.
The “Soyuz-Apollo” joint mission, which took place from July 15 to 24, 1975, is remembered as a significant “handshake in space.” This landmark event served as a powerful symbol of the easing of international tensions during the Cold War.
Rupert Blackwood 
Clement Ashworth