(September 1, 1961) As crew members secure the X-15 rocket-powered aircraft after a research flight, the B-52 mothership used for launching this unique aircraft does a low fly-by overhead. The X-15s made a total of 199 flights over a period of nearly 10 years from 1959 to 1968, and set unofficial world speed and altitude records of 4,520 mph (Mach ) and 354,200 feet. Information gained from the highly successful X-15 program contributed to the development of the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo piloted spaceflight programs, and also the Space Shuttle program. Image # : EC-61-0034

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Size: 2159px × 1546px
Photo credit: © ART Collection / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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Keywords: -52, -15, afrc, armstrong, boeing, center, flight, mothership, nasa, research