The first flight of the North American X-15 research airplane was made on June 8, 1959. This was accomplished after completion of a series of captive flights with the X-15 attached to the B-52 carrier airplane to demonstrate the aerodynamic and systems compatibility of the X-15//B-52 combination and the X-15 subsystem operation. This flight was planned as a glide flight so that the pilot need not be concerned with the propulsion system. Discussions of the launch, low-speed maneuvering, and landing characteristics are presented, and the results are compared with predictions from preflight studies. The launch characteristics were generally satisfactory, and the X-15 vertical tail adequately cleared the B-52 wing cutout. The actual landing pattern and landing characteristics compared favorably with predictions, and the recommended landing technique of lowering the flaps and landing gear at a low altitude appears to be a satisfactory method of landing the X-15 airplane. There was a quantitative correlation between flight-measured and predicted lift-drag-ratio characteristics in the clean configuration and a qualitative correlation in the landing configuration. A longitudinal-controllability problem, which became severe in the landing configuration, was evident throughout the flight and, apparently, was aggravated by the sensitivity of the side-located control stick. In the low-to-moderate angle-of-attack range covered, the longitudinal and directional stability were indicated to be adequate.
Launch, Low-Speed, and Landing Characteristics Determined from the First Flight of the North American X-15 Research Airplane
1959
28 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Aerodynamics , Aircraft , Test Facilities & Equipment , Aerodynamic characteristics , Low speed , Launching , Landing , Directional stability , Maneuvers , X-15 aircraft , Control sticks , Landing gear , Angle of attack , Flapping , Propulsion , Stabilizers(Fluid dynamics) , Systems compatibility , Wings
Launch characteristics of X-15 research airplane as determined in flight
Engineering Index Backfile | 1961
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