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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