North American X-15
The North American X-15 was a hypersonic rocket-powered aircraft operated by the United States Air Force and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The X-15 reached altitudes of over 80km and speeds of over 6000 km/h.
The X-15 had a wingspan of 6.8 meters, and length of 15.4
- Height: 15.45 m
- Diameter: 6.8 m
- Human Rated: Yes
- Maiden Flight: 6/8/1959
- Crew Capacity: 1
- Flight Life: ~10 minute flights
- Spacecraft Flown: 2
- Total Launches: 13
- Successful Launches: 12
- Failed Launches: 1
- Attempted Landings: 12
- Successful Landings: 12
- Fastest Turnaround: 22 days 14 min 5 sec
History
The North American X-15 currently holds the record for the highest speed in a manned, powered aircraft.
The three variants of the X-15 flew nearly 200 times, with 13 of them going over 80km high.
Agency
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is an independent agency of the executive branch of the United States federal government responsible for the civilian space program, as well as aeronautics and aerospace research. NASA have many launch facilities but most are inactive. The most commonly used pad will be LC-39B at Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
