In 2008, Nemesis NXT became the first kit-built airplane to fly faster than 400 mph (644 km/h). The NXT dominated the Sport Class at the 2009 National Championship Air Races, flying a “record a day, and two on Sunday.” By competition’s end, it had grabbed five new speed records and a fourth consecutive national title. NXT’s competition career concluded with four world speed records during the autumn of 2015.
NXT was the first kit-built airplane designed by computer and tested using a wind tunnel, computational fluid dynamics, and flow visualization. The team also used computer-aided design (CAD) to improve fabrication and assembly. A simulation program let them “fly” the new airplane before it was built.
Display Status
This object is on display in Aerobatic Flight at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Type
CRAFT-Aircraft
Dimensions
Overall (specification): 701cm, 725.8kg, 731.5cm (23 ft., 1600lb., 24 ft.)
Inventory Number
A20210089000
Credit Line
Gift of the United States Southwest Soaring Museum
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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