Sputniks and current fashions in Russian women's wear were among the subjects scrutinized in a panel discussion on the Soviet Union held yesterday at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.

The eight panelists, who visited the Soviet Union this summer as part of the International Astrophysical Union Conference, agreed that the Russian people were "exceptionally courteous and helpful" and that the trip was a worthwhile venture.

Layzer Discusses Russian Science

David R. Layzer '46, lecturer on Astronomy, discussed the status of science in Russia, emphasizing that scientists are held in higher regard than in the United States and consequently are free from the diversions that plague American scientists.

"Some of the top scientists are not even Communist party members," Mrs. Fred L. Whipple declared. Mrs. Whipple pointed out that by avoiding party membership, scientists are freeer to state their opinions and are liberated from the responibility that active party membership entails.

Jacchia Describes Freedom of Movement

Luigi G. Jacchia, research associate at the observatory, described the relative freedom with which unskilled workers in the Soviet Union can move to different jobs and different cities. He added, however, that housing and job shortages do make such movement difficult, and that some government supervision is exercised.

"Books, phonograph records, taxi fares, rent, cultural entertainment, and caviar" were listed by the panelists as the major items which could be obtained cheaper in Russia than in America.