This M2-F2 Lifting Body model of unknown scale was given to Dr. Hugh L. Dryden, Deputy Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration from 1958 until his death in 1965. The M2-F2 Lifting Body, built by Northrop Corporation, was one of five lifting body designs flown by NASA to study and validate the concept of safely maneuvering and landing a low-lift-over-drag vehicle upon reentry from space. Launched from a B-52 at about 45,000 feet, the pilot of the M2-F2 ignited a rocket engine and reached an altitude of over 80,000 feet. At that point the engine shut down and the pilot maneuvered the vehicle back to Earth. After a May 1967 crash, the M2-F2 was replaced by the M2-F3.
The manufacturer of the model is not known. Mrs. Dryden donated it to the Museum 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
MODELS-Aircraft
Manufacturer
Unknown
Dimensions
Model: 10.2 x 29.2 x 15.2cm (4 in. x 11 1/2 in. x 6 in.)
Materials
Model: epoxy
Base: wood
Plate: aluminum
Hardware: steel
Inventory Number
A19750398000
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Hugh L. Dryden
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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