This is a wind-tunnel model of the X-20 Dyna-Soar (Dynamic Soaring), the prototype for a single-piloted spaceplane. Originally conceived by German aerospace designer Eugen Saenger as a skip-glide rocket bomber with intercontinental range, the concept was transformed by the U.S. Air Force into a manned reconnaissance platform in space. Designed to be launched by rocket into orbit, the X-20 was a "lifting body" design and would have landed like an airplane. The Dyna-Soar program was cancelled in December 1963, before the first manned test flight took place. This wind-tunnel model was used to test the aerodynamic characteristics of the X-20. It was built by Boeing and donated by the U.S. Air Force Museum in 1966.
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-Wind Tunnel
Manufacturer
Boeing Aerospace Company
Dimensions
Model: 30.5 x 162.6 x 94cm (12 x 64 x 37 in.)
Materials
Composite material
Inventory Number
A19660151000
Credit Line
Transferred from the United States Air Force Museum.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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