This is an unflown Q-ball nosecone, cutaway to show the internal components. Built by Northrup and Hydraulic Research Manufacturing Co., these nosecones were placed at the front of U.S. X-15 rocket powered aircraft and served as an inertial flight data system capable of functioning in a highly dynamic pressure environment. X-15s were flown from 1959-1968 and set the world's unofficial speed and altitude records of 4,250 mph (Mach 6.7) and 354,200 feet in a program to investigate all aspects of piloted hypersonic flight. This Q-ball was transferred to NASM by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in 1974.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

CRAFT-Aircraft Parts

Manufacturer

Hydraulic Research & Manufacturing Co., Inc.
Northrop

Dimensions

Overall (nosecone): 1 ft. 1 1/2 in. tall x 10 in. wide x 1 ft. 6 in. long (34.3 x 45.72cm)
Support (stand): 1 ft. 6 in. long x 10 in. wide (45.7 x 25.4cm)

Materials

Base ring - aluminum
Components - plastic and metal internal electronics
Case shell - plexiglass
Stand - wood
Support cradle - plexiglass

Inventory Number

A19940095000

Credit Line

Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.

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