This is the XLR-11, also called the 6000C-4, one of the most widely used U.S. liquid-propellant rocket engines that powered the Bell X-1 and other rocket research aircraft. Developed by Reaction Motors, Inc. in 1945, it produced a maximum thrust of 6,000 pounds from its four combustion chambers. The engine's most famous application was powering the X-1, the first plane to reach the speed of sound on 14 October 1947.
It was also used in the X-1A, X-1B, X-1D, X-1E, Douglas D-558-1 Skyrocket, and XF-91. Two tandem 6000C-4's served as the Interim Engine for the X-15 from 1960-1961, and it also powered several NASA Lifting Bodies (the HL-10, MS-F3, X-24A, and X-24B). This object was donated to the Smithsonian in 1952 by Reaction Motors, Inc.
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
ca. 1945-1953
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Rocket Engines
Manufacturer
Reaction Motors, Inc.
Dimensions
Overall: 24 × 56 1/2 in., 210lb. (61 × 143.5cm, 95.3kg)
Storage (Artex Crate): 91.4 × 177.8 × 91.4cm (36 × 70 × 36 in.)
Approximate (Weighed with Stand): 182.3kg (402lb.)
Materials
Overall Steel, Adhesive, Synthetic Fabric, Stainless Fabric, Copper, Aluminum, Paint, Stainless Steel, Brass
Inventory Number
A19530051000
Credit Line
Reaction Motors, Inc.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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