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NASA studied this McDonnell Douglas/Martin Marietta concept for a fully reusable space transportation system during the Shuttle research effort in 1969-1972. This two-stage system featured two piloted fly-back vehicles, a swept-wing booster and a delta-wing orbiter, both with large internal liquid propellant tanks visible in the cutaway. The 12-engine rocketplane would lift the attached orbiter to a set altitude, then detach to fly home as the orbiter ignited to complete its ascent into space. The orbiter's delta wings and retractable jet engines would improve maneuverability for the return flight to landing. NASA transferred a variety of concept models to the Museum after settling on the final Space Shuttle design.

 Display Status

This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

James S. McDonnell Space Hangar
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type MODELS-Crewed Spacecraft & Parts Manufacturer NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
 Dimensions Overall: 32in. x 20in. (81.28 x 50.8cm)
 Materials wood, plastic
 Inventory Number A19800399000 Credit Line Transfer from NASA Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.