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This M2-F3 lifting body was the first of the heavyweight, wingless lifting body research craft of the 1960s. The lifting body programs tested the concept of achieving aerodynamic lift from just the shape of wingless craft, a concept used in designing the Space Shuttle. This F3 is the F2 re-built after a landing accident seriously damaged the M2-F2. The rocket-powered M2 was launched from beneath a B-52 mother craft at an altitude of 45,000 ft. and would glide to a landing. NASA transferred the M2-F3 to the Museum for display in 1975.

 Display Status

This object is on display in Mary Baker Engen Restoration Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Mary Baker Engen Restoration Hangar
Object Details
Key Accomplishment(s) Wingless Research Craft Brief Description This M2-F3 lifting body was the first of the wingless lifting body research craft of the 1960s. It tested the concept of achieving aerodynamic lift from just the shape of wingless craft, a concept used in the Space Shuttle. This F3 is the F2 rebuilt after a crash in 1967. Country of Origin United States of America Type SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Test Vehicles Manufacturer Northrop Norair
 Physical Description This M2-F3 lifting body was a heavyweight, wingless lifting body research craft of the 1960s. This F3 is the F2 re-built after a landing accident seriously damaged the M2-F2. Dimensions Overall: 8ft x 22ft x 9ft, 6000lb. (243.84 x 670.56 x 274.32cm, 2721.6kg)
 Materials Aluminum, glass or plastic, various materials inside
 Alternate Name M2-F3 Lifting Body Inventory Number A19751576000 Credit Line Transferred from NASA Dryden Flight Research Center Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Open Access (CCO)
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