This collection includes material on the founding of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), as well as material on the history of radio astronomy in the United States. Other topics include David Heeschen's work at Harvard University with the Radio Astronomy Project, and on his personal scientific research at Harvard and NRAO. The papers of Dr. Heeschen in his capacities as Acting Director and as Director are included with Director's Office materials in the NRAO institutional records in the Archives.