National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
Past Exhibition
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 Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
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)
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.
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