The Talon first flew in 1959. The U.S. Air Force uses the T-38 for test pilots and flight test engineers training at the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. Air Force Materiel Command uses the T-38 to test experimental equipment such as electrical and weapon systems. Pilots from most North Atlantic Treaty Organization countries train in the T-38 at Sheppard AFB, Texas, through the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration uses T-38 aircraft as trainers for astronauts and as observers and chase planes on programs such as the space shuttle. The Talon was also used by Jacquiline Cochran on several record-breaking speed and altitude flights.
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
Date
1959
Type
CRAFT-Aircraft Parts
Manufacturer
Northrop Aircraft Inc.
Physical Description
A single-shaft turbojet engine for a Northrop T-38 Talon
Dimensions
Overall: 273.1 × 53.3 × 66cm (107 1/2 in. × 21 in. × 26 in.)
Storage: 298.5 × 78.7 × 78.7cm (117 1/2 in. × 31 in. × 31 in.)
Materials
Non-Magnetic White Metal
Ferrous Alloy
Copper Alloy
Plastic
Anodized Aluminum
Electrical Wiring
Paint
Asbestos
Inventory Number
A20040215003
Credit Line
Transferred from the United States Air Force.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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