In the vault of the National Security Agency (ANB) lies a historical treasure: two Ampex format 1-inch video tapes featuring a lecture by Admiral Grace Hopper, a prominent figure in the field of computer sciences. The lecture, titled “Future opportunities: data, equipment, software and people,” was recorded on August 19, 1982 at the ANB headquarters in Fort Meade and is housed in the archives of the National Cryptographic School. Despite its invaluable historical significance, the tapes remain inaccessible as they are in an outdated format that the NSA is unable to reproduce.
Admiral Grace Hopper, a mathematician and Rear Admiral of the US Navy, made significant contributions to the early development of computer technology. Her work on the Harvard Mark I computer, invention of the first compiler, and involvement in the creation of Cobol, one of the first high-level programming languages, laid the groundwork for modern software. The 1982 lecture, presented in two parts, contains important insights on technology evolution and its societal impacts.
On October 21, 2021, a request was made to the NSA to obtain a copy of these historical videos. However, on May 7, 2024, the NSA initially claimed to have no documents pertaining to this request. After further clarification that the video is listed in the NSA television center catalog, the agency provided a more detailed response. It was revealed that the videos are in a format that the NSA can no longer reproduce or digitize, hence unable to confirm their existence.
The challenge of accessing these records is not solely technical but also pertains to the preservation of technological heritage. The tapes remain in an outdated format, presenting a barrier to retrieval. On June 25, 2024, in response to a re-request from the NSA, an image of the tape labels was provided.
The Ampex format 1-inch video tapes were manufactured in three types – a, b, and c, with type c becoming an industry standard due to its quality and reliability. To access Admiral Hopper’s lecture at ANB or an affiliated organization, a compatible video recorder must be located. While such devices are scarce, they have not completely vanished, and collectors or third-party organizations may possess playback equipment.
With its expertise in tackling intricate technical challenges and decrypting data of national importance, the ANB holds the capability to restore Admiral Hopper’s lectures. This endeavor would not only pay homage to the agency’s legacy but also serve as a technical feat reflecting the intricate work of the NSA.
Faced with digital obsolescence threatening early technological formats, the