SPACE PHOTOS

Estimate Request for the image S04230

To make a request for several images, go back to the Picture Library and add them to the Light Box.



Ref : S04230

Theme :  Aviation-NASA aircrafts-Prototypes  (1538 images)

Title : Ignition of the Pegasus rocket moments after release from the B-52 signaled acceleration of the X-43A/Pegasus combination over the Pacific Ocean.

Caption :

The first X-43A hypersonic research aircraft and its modified Pegasus booster rocket were carried aloft by NASA's NB-52B carrier aircraft from Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., on June 2, 2001 for the first of three high-speed free flight attempts. About an hour and 15 minutes later the Pegasus booster was released from the B-52 to accelerate the X-43A to its intended speed of Mach 7. Before this could be achieved, the combined Pegasus and X-43A ''stack'' lost control about eight seconds after ignition of the Pegasus rocket motor. The mission was terminated and explosive charges ensured the Pegasus and X-43A fell into the Pacific Ocean in a cleared Navy range area. A NASA investigation board is being assembled to determine the cause of the incident. Work continues on two other X-43A vehicles, the first of which could fly by late 2001. Central to the X-43A program is its integration of an air-breathing ''scramjet'' engine that could enable a variety of high-speed aerospace craft, and promote cost-effective access to space. The 12-foot, unpiloted research vehicle was developed and built for NASA by MicroCraft Inc., Tullahoma, Tenn. The booster was built by Orbital Sciences Corp. at Chandler, Ariz.



to specify how you want to use these images. You can also send your request by E-mail
To make a request for several images, go back to the Picture Library and add them to the Light Box.

Image(s) use :
 
 
Reproduction format of the image in the final document :
 
 
Print run of the document on which the image is reproduced :
 
 
Number of consecutive uses :
 
 
If image is reproduced in the Press, please specify number of titles :
 
 
If image is reproduced as a poster
please specify size of the poster :
 
 
Give all useful information or specify the use of the image(s) in this box :