| Consolidate Vultee YB-60 (a/c 92676) SET |
| YRF-110A Spectre |
| U.S. Navy F4H Phantom -- Record Setting Flight |
| U.S. Navy A3J Vigilante -- Record Setting Flight |
| B-58 a/c 59-2451 -- Record Setting Flight |
| LIFTING BODY PHOTOS |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor (a/c 6680) |
| Grumman XF9F-9 |
| Astronaut Thomas Stafford - YF-16 at Edwards |
Douglas 558-2 Skyrocket |
| Northrop XP-89 SCORPION (a/c 6678) |
| Bell XP-83 Set |
| XF2D-1 Banshee |
| XB-51 Series |
| U.S. Army Air Forces XP-84, A/C 559475 Set |
| Bell X-5 (a/c 01838) Set |
| U.S. Air Force XF-92A Set |
| XB-46 a/c 559582 Set |
| U.S. Air Force Flight Surgeons - B-58 Orientation |
| McDonnell XP-85 GOBLIN a/c 6524 Set |
| CONVAIR XB-58, a/c 50660 SET |
| U.S. NAVY - CONVAIR XFY-1 POGO SET |
| U.S. Air Force Douglas X-3 Stiletto Set |
| XF4D-1 SKYRAY a/c 124587 SET |
| YF-84F a/c 92430 FICON PROJECT |
| XP-90 a/c 6687 SET |
| XB-47 a/c 6065 SET |
| YF-84F a/c 92430 PHASE II FLIGHT TEST SET |
| XV-3 SET |
| XF-104A a/c 37786 Set |
| X-15 SET |
| BELL X-1A SET |
| YF-100A a/c 26754 SET |
| YF-107A a/c 55118 SET |
| XF2R-1 SET |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XF4D-1 SKYRAY (a/c 124587) Photo: Three sets of stamps on reverse; Photo Library dated OCT 3, 1955, "DOUGLAS XF4D-1" bold stamp, and the official Douglas Aircraft Company stamp. Some handwriting in pen that states, "Return to Fran Kohl, Dept. 752". 8 x 10 is in excellent condition. Photo taken over China Lake, CA. I believe on 22 Sept. 1960. Description: Aircraft 124587 set the world speed record of 752.944 mph 10/3/53. Now on outside display at US Naval Museum of Armament and Technology, China Lake, CA. This plane was delivered to GE Flight Test at Edwards AFB Jul 1955 and performed flight tests on J79 and CJ805 engines. Returned to US Navy May 1960. |
| The following images were scanned from my personal collection of vintage aircraft, aerospace & early manned space exploration photographs. Most are post WW II through the early 70's, with my main interest in the early jet age. Most all actual sizes are 8" x 10" unless otherwise identified. These are NOT modern reproductions, copies or reprints. |
| U.S. Air Force - Bell X-2 Research Vehicle (a/c 6674) Photo: Vintage 8x10 original on fiber based paper. Photo ID 156812A on lower front. Description: Only two XS-2 Research vehicles were made. redesignated X-2 in 1948. a/c 674 lost Sep 27, 1956 after completing first ever Mach 3 flight when Capt. Milburn Apt lost control of the plane and crashed. Capt Apt was killed. a/c 675 exploded in belly of B-50 mothership May 12, 1953 and was dropped into Lake Ontario. Bell test pilot Jean "Skip" Ziegler and Bell flight engineer Frank Wolko killed. |
| U.S. Navy - Vought XF6U-1 PIRATE (a/c 33532) Photo: Vintage Navy Photo with detailed type description on reverse, dated March 21, 1947. I believe the contract was cancelled. 8x10 in great shape. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American X-15A-2 (a/c 6671) Photo: Launch Vintage Photo. (8"X10"), News release is taped to reverse. Description: Being launched from Boeing B-52 #20003. The X-15A-2 has fired off its' Reaction Motors YLR-99 rocket engine. 6671 received extensively damaged during emergency landing at Edwards AFB Nov 9, 1962 with John McKay at the controls. Later modified as X-15A-2 - Now on display at WPAFB Museum. The photo is in perfect condition with crayoned crop marks in the white margin. unattributed. |
| U.S. Air Force - Convair XB-58 Hustler #1 (a/c 5660) Photo: Vintage photo 8x10 in excellent condition. Convair office photo stamp on reverse. Description: This was the original XB-58. Accumulating 150 flights, it was the first B-58 to reach both Mach 1 and Mach 2. This XB-58 was used for ALBM testing before being scrapped. Records show model as Convair YB-58A-1-CF Hustler. Later redesignated B-58A. a/c 660 scrapped at Kelly AFB after 1960. |
Artist concept photo of a supersonic transport aircraft. Vintage 8 x 10 photo printed on Kodak paper in excellent condition. |
| U.S Air Force - Convair XB-58 HUSTLER (a/c 5660) Description: This was the original XB-58. Accumulating 150 flights, it was the first before being scrapped. Two XB-58s were built (S/N 55-0660, 55-0661) for prototype testing and the first flight was on Nov. 11, 1956. Eleven more aircraft were completed as YB-58s followed by 17 RB-58s. A total of 86 production B-58As were built for operational service between 1960 and 1970. Photo: Vintage photo. Convair company official stamp on reverse with Photo ID: 30-7618. 8x10 in excellent condition. |
| U,S, Navy - Ryan XF2R-1 Dark Shark - Photo ID: 703588 Photo: Vintage Navy photo with "Official U.S. Navy Photograph" stamped on reverse with detailed description. Dated January 20, 1947. 8X10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Description: The XF2R-1 was called the The Flying Laboratory of the Navy's Bureau of Aeronautics for testing pre-jet engines. The XF2R-1 was the first Navy combat plane to be powered by a gas turbine engine turning a propeller, in addition, like the PR-1 Fireball, the shark-nosed XF2R-1 had a thermal jet engine tucked away inside the aft section of the fuselage to give peak performance for burst of speed and climb. Only one prototype was built. |
| U,S, Navy - Ryan XF2R-1 Dark Shark - Photo ID: 703587 Photo: Vintage Navy photo with "Official U.S. Navy Photograph" stamped on reverse with detailed description. Dated January 20, 1947. 8X10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Description: The XF2R-1 was called the The Flying Laboratory of the Navy's Bureau of Aeronautics for testing pre-jet engines. The XF2R-1 was the first Navy combat plane to be powered by a gas turbine engine turning a propeller, in addition, like the PR-1 Fireball, the shark-nosed XF2R-1 had a thermal jet engine tucked away inside the aft section of the fuselage to give peak performance for burst of speed and climb. Only one prototype was built. |
| U,S, Navy - Ryan XF2R-1 Dark Shark - Photo ID: 703586 Photo: Vintage Navy photo with "Official U.S. Navy Photograph" stamped on reverse with detailed description. Dated January 20, 1947. 8X10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Description: The XF2R-1 was called the The Flying Laboratory of the Navy's Bureau of Aeronautics for testing pre-jet engines. The XF2R-1 was the first Navy combat plane to be powered by a gas turbine engine turning a propeller, in addition, like the PR-1 Fireball, the shark-nosed XF2R-1 had a thermal jet engine tucked away inside the aft section of the fuselage to give peak performance for burst of speed and climb. Only one prototype was built. |
| U.S. Air Force - Bell X-1A (a/c 81384) Photo: A vintage Bell aircraft photo with Bell Stamp on reverse along with detailed description. The photo also has the Associated Press stamp from London. Dated 12/17/53. 8x10 in great condition with some slight turning of the edges. Descrption: Records show that the X-1A exploded while suspended under mothership during test Aug 8, 1955. Jettisoned into Edwards AFB range. Chuck Yeager flew this a/c for the unofficial speed record at more then 1600 miles an hour the Saturday before this photo was taken. Six years earlier, October, 1947, he became the first to fly faster then the speed of sound in the X-1. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Consolidated-Vultee XB-46 (a/c 559582) Photo: U.S. Army Air Forces stamp on reverse. 8X10 in excellent condition. Description: Shown at Lindbergh Field, San Diego. The plane completed its first flight test in April 1947. XB-46 is 106' long and a wingspan of 113'. |
| U.S. Air Force - Bell X-1A (a/c 81384) Photo: Original Bell photo with detailed description on reverse with London Associated press Stamp. 8x10 in great condition with some slight turning of the edges. Description: Chase plane is a North American F-86D-5-NA SABRE (a/c 0509) which was used as a chase plane at Edwards Air Force base Calif. Records show that the X-1A exploded while suspended under mothership during test Aug 8, 1955. Jettisoned into Edwards AFB range. Date of photo 12/17/53. Six years earlier, October, 1947, Chuck Yeager became the first to fly faster then the speed of sound in the X-1. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Consolidated Vultee XP-81 #1 (a/c 44-91000) Photo: Vintage International News Photo with press release on back. Dated January 25, 1946. 6" X 8" photo in excellent condition. Description: The Consolidated Vultee XP-81 was a development of the Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation to build a single seat, long range escort fighter that combined use of both a turbojet and a turboprop engines. Although promising, the lack of a suitable engine combined with the end of World War II doomed the project. The first XP-81 (serial 44-91000) was completed in January 1945. |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XF3D-1 SKYNIGHT (a/c 121458) Description: The second of only three serial numbers. Shown here with four Sperry Sparrow Air to Air guided missiles hanging from racks on Navy's twin Jet night fighter. Photo: 8x10 in excellent condition with "Official U.S. Navy Photo" stamped on reverse with detailed description. USN File #709195. |
| U.S. Navy - Grumman XF10F-1 JAGUAR (a/c 124435) Photo: First of two XF10F-1's. 8X10 photo in excellent condition with George A. Haddad stamp on reverse. Description: The Grumman XF10F Jaguar was a prototype swing-wing fighter aircraft offered to the US Navy in the early 1950s. Although it never entered service, its research pointed the way towards the later General Dynamics F-111 and the F-14 Tomcat. |
| The Research Airplane Program was a joint effort by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA, the predecessor of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration) and the military services. It was conceived near the end of Word War II to perform flight research with a series of specialized aircraft in the then-unexplored realms of transonic and supersonic flight. The "X" designation is used to denote piloted, autonomous, or remotely piloted aerospace vehicles designed for testing highly experimental configurations. Numerous piloted and unpiloted X-planes have been designated, including variations and rebuilt/modified airframes. "Y" model is the designator for the military prototypes after they accept the aircraft for phase II flight testing. |
| U.S. Air Force - Bell XS-1 (a/c 6063) Photo: A fantastic original vintage U.S. Army Air Forces photo with purple description on reverse. Also has a stamp on reverse from restricted intelligence Photo Division. This is a true classic vintage photo, 8x10 in excellent condition. Great find. Description: This airframe is the second serial number for the SX-1. Serial number 46-062 is *Glamorous Glennis*, first aircraft to exceed Mach 1, flown by Charles E. Yeager Oct 14, 1947. Now on display in NASM, Washington, DC. This photo of 63 was converted to X-1E. Now on display outside NASA facility at Edwards AFB, CA. a/c 64 was destroyed Nov 9, 1951 while underneath B-50 46-006 after landing. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Republic XP-47J (ac 43-46952) Photo: 8x10 vintage photo on fiber-based paper in excellent condition. Stamp on reverse reads, "PHOTOS by, Haddad of Quogue". Slight yellowing. Description: The Republic XP-47J (Serial Number 43-46952) was the prototype for a lighter (armament reduced to six 0.5 machine guns) and very high-speed interceptor version of the company's well-known "Thunderbolt". It was powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-2800-57 piston engine equipped with a General Electric CH3 turbosupercharger that provided 2800 hp (+ 400 pounds of exhaust thrust). A speed of 504 mph was achieved by the prototype on August 4, 1944: it was the first prop-driven aircraft to break the 500 mph speed barrier. This record was only beaten by a highly modified Grumman F8F-2 "Bearcat" on August 21, 1989! |
| U.S. Navy - Martin XP6M-1 SEAMASTER (a/c 138821) Description: Photo showing test flight over Baltimore and the Chesapeake Bay. The XP6M-1 was the Navy's new 600 MPH Jet seaplane. Only two XP6M-1 airframes built. 138821 (c/n XP-1) first flight Jul 14, 1955. Crashed into Potomac River near junction of St. Mary's River Dec 7, 1955. 4 killed. Accident caused by malfunction in control system which caused violent pitch down resulting in aircraft disintegration. Photo: 9X7 photo in good condition. Detailed press release on reverse with release date of Sept. 27, 1955, just a few months before crash. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American YF-100A SUPER SABRE (a/c 25754) Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with North American Aviation stamp on reverse. Shown here landing at Edwards AFB, Calif.. |
| U.S. Navy - Grumman XF9F-2 PANTHER (a/c 122475) Photo: Vintage Navy photo with "Official Navy Photo" stamp on reverse and detailed typed description. 8X10 in excellent condition dated, Monday, December 19, 1947. Description: There were only three XF9F-2 airframes built. Serial #'s 122475, 122476, 122477. a/c 122476 airframe modified and designated XF9F-3 prototype. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Northrop XP-89 SCORPION (a/c 6678) Description: In the same vein (and all black paint job) as the P-61 Black Widow, the Scorpion was designed as a radar equipped two seat all weather/night interceptor. This machine made its first flight on 16 August 1948 . With reclassification, it became the XF-89 in 1949. Main production version was the F-89D, some 682 examples of which were built. The single XP prototype seen above was followed by a YP-89A second prototype (46-679). Several Scorpions survive in various museums around the country. Photo (Left): 8X10 vintage photo in excellent condition on fiber based paper and Photo ID 34890A.C. on front and blue USAF detailed text on reverse. Photo (Right): 8X10 vintage photo with no markings on reverse. Photo in excellent condition. |
| X-24A Research Vehicle - B&W Photo. NASA Photo ID: E-18769 Description: NASA Photo # E-18769. This side-rear view of the X-24A Lifting Body on the lake bed by the NASA Flight Research Center shows its control surfaces used for subsonic flight. The X-24 was one of a group of lifting bodies flown by the NASA Flight Research Center (now Dryden Flight Research Center), Edwards, California, in a joint program with the U.S. Air Force at Edwards Air Force Base from 1963 to 1975. The lifting bodies were used to demonstrate the ability of pilots to maneuver and safely land wingless vehicles designed to fly back to Earth from space and be landed like an airplane at a predetermined site. Photo: Boarderless 8x10 photo in near mint condition. Photo date was April 18, 1967. |
| U.S. Air Force - Bell X-5 Vintage B/W Glossy Photo (a/c 01838) Description: Only two a/c were made. The above, 1838, is at USAF Museum, WPAFB, OH. Occasionally was used as a chase plane at Edwards AFB. a/c 1839 crashed at Edwards AFB Oct 14, 1953 when entered irrecoverable spin during stall tests. Pilot killed. Photo (Left): Photo is an 8 x 10 in excellent condition with Bell Aircraft Corporation stamp on reverse on fiber based paper. Photo (Right): 8 x 10 photo on fiber based paper with the Bell Aircraft Corporation stamp on reverse. |
| U.S. Air Force - Douglas X-3 STILETTO (a/c 92892) Photo: 8X10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Description: The twin-turbojet X-3, the only one built, was designed to test features of an aircraft suitable for sustained flights at supersonic speeds and high altitudes. A secondary mission was to investigate the use of new materials such as titanium and to explore new construction techniques. The X-3 made its first test flight at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., on Oct. 20, 1952, and flew supersonically in June 1953. Unlike the X-1, X-2 and X-15, which were released in mid-air from a "mother plane," the X-3 operated in a more conventional manner by taking off from the ground. Of the 52 total flights for the X-3, Chuck Yeager was only 1 of 4 pilots ever to fly the X-3. Shown here on the dry lake bed at Edwards AFB. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American YF-107A, (a/c 55118) Description: The first of 3 serial numbers. The North American F-107, nicknamed "Ultra Sabre", was North American Aviation's entry for a United States Air Force tactical fighter-bomber design competition of the 1950s. The F-107 incorporated many innovations and radical design features, and was based on the F-100 Super Sabre. The competition was eventually won by the F-105 Thunderchief, and the F-107 prototypes ended their lives as test aircraft. 5118 (c/n 212-1) first flight Sep 10, 1956. Leased to NACA as #207. Currently on display at Pima Air Museum, Photos: Both photos are in excellent condition. "George Haddad" stamp on reverse. Fiber based paper. Photos taken at Edwards AFB, Calif. |
| U.S. Air Force - Northrop YT-38-05 TALON (a/c 81191) Photo: This vintage photo is the first serial numbered T-38 during it's maiden flight. Description: Detailed description on reverse stating the T-38 Talon leaves the ground for the first time at the Air Research and Development Flight Test Center at Edwards, AFB, Calif. 8 x 10 in excellent condition with Blakeslee-Lane, Inc. stamp on reverse. Both of the first two T-38's, a/c 1191 & 1192 were converted to YT-38A. a/c 1192 is at South Dakota Air and Space Museum, Ellsworth AFB. Not sure of 1191's fate. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American YF-100A SUPER SABRE (a/c 25754) Press release was on reverse but missing. ( 8 X 10 ). First of two YF-100's ordered. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American Aviation YF-100A SUPER SABRE (a/c 25754) Photo has "North American Aviation, F-100 Super Sabre" stamp on reverse. 8X10. First of two YF-100's ordered. |
| U.S. Air Force - Lockheed YF-104A STARFIGHTER (a/c 52956) Description: This was the first photo released of the F-104 with US Air Force Tuesday, April 17, 1956. Serial number is from 1955. This a/c 2956 crashed at NAS China Lake. Photo: 8x10 vintage original photo with lower right corner damage as seen in photo, but doesn't detract from overall photo. |
| U.S. Navy - Vought XF8U-3 CRUSADER III (a/c 146340) To NASA as 226 in May 1959. Official Navy photograph with detailed description on reverse, dated 11 September 1958. Armed with the Sparrow III Missile. 8" X 10" in excellent condition. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (A/C 92430) Description: Aircraft was originally on F-84E contract as YF-96A. Later modified as YRF-84F parasite fighter in combination with GRB-36F (a/c 92707). Now on display at USAF Museum, Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio. From 1952 to 1956, the Fighter Conveyer (FICON) program investigated the potential of carrying various models of the Republic F-84's in the bomb bay of a B-36 Peacemaker, designated as GRB-36F, as seen here. Photo: 8 x 10 Photo in good condition on fiber based paper. |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XF4D-1 SKYRAY (a/c 124587) Photo: Original McDonnell Douglas Photo with "McDonnell Douglas Photo By/From Harry Gann" Stamp on reverse. Photo # HG81-303C. Repeating 3-line "This Paper Manufactured By Kodak" watermarks on reverse. Excellent 8 x 10 photo in near mint condition. Description: Aircraft 124587 set the world speed record of 752.944 mph 10/3/53. Now on outside display at US Naval Museum of Armament and Technology, China Lake, CA. This plane was delivered to GE Flight Test at Edwards AFB Jul 1955 and performed flight tests on J79 and CJ805 engines. Returned to US Navy May 1960. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American X-15A (a/c 66670) Description: The X-15 first flew on June 8, 1959, on a glide flight. It was dropped from under the wing of a specially modified B-52 "Mothership." The first powered flight took place on September 17. Once the X-15 fell clear of the B-52, pilot Scott Crossfield ignited the rocket engine and flew to a relatively pokey Mach .79. a/c 56-6670 is on display at National Air and Space Museum, Washington, DC. Photo: Nice fiber based paper and in excellent condition. Photo is date stamped December 1, 1958 with the Air Force Flight Test Center stamp on reverse from Edwards Air Force Base. That would place this photo at least 6 months before the first free flight (1-1-5). |
| U.S. Air Force - North American YF-100A Description: I can't see the serial number, but there were only two serial numbers for the YF-100A. This is either 5754 or 5755. 5755 (c/n 180-2) suffered engine failure Apr 7, 1954 and was damaged beyond repair in hard landing at Edwards AFB. Later on display at Keesler AFB Air Park, MS. Noted stored at Edwards AFB Fall 2003. Photo: The photo is in excellent condition on nice fiber based paper. |
| U.S. Air Force / NASA - Lockheed YF-12A (a/c 06934?) Photo: 8 X 10 vintage B/W glossy in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with USAF Edwards Air Force Base stamp on reverse. I believe this to be YF-12A 06934. It came from a set of photo of 934. |
| U.S. Air Force - Boeing XB-47 STRATOJET ( a/c 6065) Photo: Nice vintage 8x10 photo of the XB-47 landing with drag chute deployed. This is the first serial number of only two XB-47's. On a nice fiber based paper with corner damage due to push-pins. Some staining in lower right corner, but overall good condition. |
| U.S. Navy - Convair XFY-1 POGO Description: The Convair XFY Pogo tailsitter was an experiment in vertical takeoff and landing. The Pogo had delta wings and three-bladed contra-rotating propellers powered by a 5,500 hp Allison YT40-A-16 turboprop engine. It was intended to be a high-performance fighter aircraft capable of operating from small warships. Landing the XFY-1 was difficult as the pilot had to look over his shoulder while carefully working the throttle to land. Photo: Only one prototype was made. This 8x10 photo is a fiber based paper of 50's vintage. In good condition with some corner damage from push-pins and a few handling creases. Great find. |
| U.S. Army - Bell XV-3 Convertiplane (a/c 4147) Photo: This is an 8x10 vintage B/W press photo released on 14 Feb 1955. U.S. Army purple detailed press-type description on reverse. Photo is in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. Description: On reverse reads, "The Bell XV-3 Convertiplane which was developed for the US Army under a joint Army-Air Force contract, is unveiled today during a brief roll-out ceremony at the Bell Aircraft Corporation plant. The XV-3 is a titling-rotor design convertiplane. It features combination rotor-propellers mounted near the tips of a stubby fixed wing which operate as helicopter rotors for take-offs and landings and tilt forward to perform as conventional propellers for cruising and high-speed flight." |
| U.S. Air Force -- Consolidate Vultee (Convair) YB-60-1 ( a/c 92676) Photo (Left): 8x10 vintage photo on a fiber based paper with USAF stamp on reverse that reads, "OFFICIAL AF PHOTO, 4925th TG A, Kirkland AF BASE, NEW MEXICO." records show originally designated YB-36G. Cut up for scrap July 1954. Photo is in good condition with corner damage due to push-pins.. Photo (Right): Vintage 8 x 10 in good condition on fiber based paper with Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation stamp on reverse with press release description. Shown here in flight near Fort Worth, Texas, where it went under flight tests. Description: Only two built. On August 25, 1950, Convair issued a formal proposal for a swept-winged version of the B-36 with all-jet propulsion. The United States Air Force was sufficiently interested that on March 15, 1951, the USAF authorized Convair to convert two B-36Fs (49-2676 and 49-2684) as B-36Gs. Since the aircraft was so radically different from the existing B-36, the designation was soon changed to YB-60. |
| U.S. Air Force - Lockheed XF-104A Starfighter (a/c 37786) Description: First of only two XF-104A serial numbers. This aircraft ,7786, crashed Jul 11, 1957 due to uncontrollable tail flutter. Pilot Bill Park ejected safely. Photo (Upper Left): 8 X 10 Vintage B/W photo on nice fiber based paper. In good condition with some corner damage and a few handling creases. Photo (Upper Right): 8 x 10 vintage B/W glossy in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Photo (Lower Left): 8 X 10 Vintage B/W photo on nice fiber based paper. In excellent, near mint, condition with Wright-Patterson AFB stamp on reverse. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American X-15-2 (a/c 6671) Pilot, Maj. Bob White Photo: This is a vintage Associated Press photo (from 1961, NOT a modern reproduction, copy or reprint) of Maj. Bob White standing beside the X-15 he just flew to a record speed of 4,675 km/h (Mach 4.43) and an altitude of 23,607 m. Photo measures 8" x 7", has Associated Press stampings on reverse, and is in perfect condition on fiber based paper. Date stamp on reverse is March 9, 1961. Bob White's Mach 4 flight was on March 7th. Description: Robert White was the first to fly Mach 4,5 & 6, the first to fly in excess of 3000 mph, the first to fly above 200,000’ and 300,000’; was to become the first man to fly a winged vehicle into space. This allowed him to become only the 5th American to attain astronaut wings and only the 2nd Air Force pilot to do this. Alan program, went first. |
| U.S. ARMY - BELL XV-3 CONVERTIPLANE (a/c 4147) Description: Only two made. Originally designated as Bell XH-33-BF and later redesignated XV-3. This aircraft, a.c. 4147, crashed Oct 25, 1956 after experiencing severe in-flight rotor instability. Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with Bell Aircraft stamp on reverse dated 14 FEB 1955. Associated press stamp also on reverse. Bell confidential stamp until 12 noon C.S.T 10 FEB 1955. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - North American XB-45 Tornado (a/c 559479) Photo: Vintage B/W Glossy in excellent condition on fiber based paper. This aircraft was the first XB-45 serial number. Three XB-45 prototypes were built Rocket-Assisted Take Off ( RATO ). |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Northrop XP-79B Flying Ram (a/c 352437) Photo: A vintage B/W glossy photo with the Wright Air Field Intelligence Still Photo Section stamp on reverse on a fiber based paper. This was originally a restricted photo. a/c 53437 was the only prototype built. Description: The XP-79B was lost on its first flight 12 September 1945. While performing a slow roll 15 minutes into the flight control was lost for unknown reasons. Test pilot Harry Crosby attempted to bail out but was struck by the aircraft and fell to his death. Shortly thereafter, the project was canceled. |
| U.S. Air Force - Boeing XB-47 STRATOJET (a/c 6065) Photo: 8 x 10 vintage B/W glossy on fiber based paper with "USAF Air Materiel Command Photo" stamp on reverse. First serial number of only two XB-47's. |
| U.S. Air Force - Boeing XB-47 STRATOJET ( a/c 6065) Photo: 8 x 10 Vintage B/W glossy on fiber based paper with "USAF Air Materiel Command Photo" stamp on reverse. First serial number of only two XB-47's. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - McDonnell XP-85 GOBLIN (a/c 6524) Photo (Left): 8 x 10 vintatge B/W glossy on fiber based paper with "USAF Air Materiel Command Photo" stamp on reverse. Was redesignated XF-85 in 1948. The second serial number of only two. 524 is on display at SAC Museum, Omaha, Nebraska. Photo (Right): 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with the McDonnell Douglas stamp on reverse with photo ID D4E-10112 stamp. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Lockheed YP-80A SHOOTING STAR (a/c 483034) Forces stamp on reverse from Wright Field Intelligence Still Photo section. |
| U.S. Air Force - Lockheed XP-90 (a/c 6687) Description: First of only two XP-90's built. Redesignated XF-90 in 1948. Both used as chase planes at Edwards AFB. a/c 687 tested to destruction at NACA lab in Cleveland, OH. a/c 688 was destroyed in a nuclear test. Bulk recovered in 2003 by USAF Museum. Noted Jul 2005 in USAF Museum restoration workshop. Photo (Left): 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with USAF Air Materiel Command stamp on reverse. Photo (Right): 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. |
| U.S. Air Force - General Dynamics F-16XL (a/c 75-0747) Description: The General Dynamics F-16XL is a derivative of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, with a cranked-arrow delta wing that is over twice the size of that of the standard F-16 wing. The program was initially funded by the manufacturer, and involved conversion of two FSD F-16A's. In late 1980, the USAF and General Dynamics agreed on a cooperative test program, with the Air Force providing the third and fifth FSD F-16s A-3 (#75-0747) and A-5 (#75-0749) for modification into F-16XL prototypes. In late 1988, the two prototypes were taken out of storage and turned over to NASA, where they received the serials #849 (A-5, ex #75-0749) and #848 (A-3, ex #75-0747). They were used in a program designed to evaluate aerodynamics concepts to improve wing airflow during sustained supersonic flight. Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition with repeating "THIS PAPER MANUFACTURED BY KODAK" watermarks on reverse. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (a/c 92430) Description: Aircraft was originally on F-84E contract as YF-96A. Later modified as YRF-84F parasite fighter in combination with GRB-36F. Now on display at USAF Museum, Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio. Seen here in the series going through Phase II flight testing at Edwards AFB. Attached Republic Aviation description reads, "BUILT FOR SPEED: Without external armament and fuel tanks, the sleek, clean, swept-wing lines of the Republic F-84F Thunderjet hint of very high speeds. Its top speed is much greater than the 630 mph gait of the F-84E. This new fighter, now swept-wing fighter-bomber." Photo: 8 x 10 Vintage 50's photo in excellent condition on fiber based paper dated 1/16/51. Photo ID on reverse: H 10487 |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (A/C 92430) Description: Seen here in a series of photos going through Phase II flight testing at Edwards AFB. Attached Republic Aviation description reads, "BUILT FOR SPEED: Without external armament and fuel tanks, the sleek, clean, swept-wing lines of the Republic F-84F Thunderjet hint of very high speeds. Its top speed is much greater than the 630 mph gait of the F-84E. This new fighter, now being prepared for production, will become the Air Force's first operational swept-wing fighter-bomber." Photo: 8 x 10 Vintage 50's photo in excellent condition on fiber based paper dated 1/16/51. Photo ID on reverse: H 10469 |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (A/C 92430) Description: Attached Republic Aviation description reads, " JUST A SAMPLE: fighter, released by the USAF, show just a sample of the plan's punch-packing prowess as a ground support fighter-bomber. Here it carries 24 five-inch High Velocity Aircraft Rockets (HVARs). Additional armament loads are classified by the USAF." Photo: 8 x 10 Vintage 50's photo in excellent condition on fiber based paper dated 1/16/51. Photo ID on reverse: H 10472. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (A/C 92430) Description: Attached Republic Aviation description reads, " STAYING POWER: To carry heavy loads of armament for long distances or to hover for very long periods in the target area, Republic's F-84F Thunderjet carries two 230-gallon fuels tanks in addition to its lethal load of eighteen 5-inch HVAR aircraft rockets or the equivalent in other types of armament consists of six 50 calibre machine guns." Photo: 8 x 10 Vintage 50's photo in excellent condition on fiber based paper dated 1/16/51. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (A/C 92430) Description: Attached Republic Aviation description reads, "FOR GREATER RANGE: The attachment of two jettisonable, 450 gallon external fuel tanks, under the wings, give the speedy, swept-wing Republic fighter a combat radius of action, as an escort fighter, much more than the 1000-mile radius of action of the F-84E, when equipped with bomb pylon tanks. The 'E' is currently the longest range jet fighter in production for the USAF." 1/16/51. Photo ID on reverse: H 10467. |
| USAF - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (A/C 92430) Firing the 50 Cal. Description: Attached Republic Aviation description reads, " DELIVERING THE 'MAIL' (1): The USAF's newest jet fighter, Republic's F-84-F Thunderjet, prepares for firing a portion of its load of 24 five-inch rockets during flight tests at Edwards AF Base, Muroc, California. The speedy, swept-wing fighter can carry greater loads of armament but this information and more detailed performance data are classified by the USAF." I actually believe this photo shows the F-84F firing its 50 caliber machine gun. If you look close off the nose of the a/c you'll see dark streaking that would indicate such. Photo: 8 x 10 Vintage 50's photo in excellent condition on fiber based paper dated 1/16/51. Photo ID on reverse: H 10477. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (A/C 92430) Description: Attached Republic Aviation description reads, "MIXING IT UP: For greater effectiveness, ground support aircraft must be able to carry many varieties of armament such as rockets, bombs, Napalm tanks, fragmentation bombs, etc. Here armorers are installing two 1000-pound bombs in addition to 18 five-inch rockets, already attached to the wings of Republic's F-84-F swept-wing fighter-bomber." Photo: 8 x 10 Vintage 50's photo in excellent condition on fiber based paper dated 1/16/51. Photo ID on reverse: 3 1621. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (A/C 92430) Description: Attached Republic Aviation description reads, "THE PRETTIEST support fighter, loaded-to-the-hilt with bombs or rockets, or both, streaking by overhead to blast enemy positions ahead, is the "prettiest sight in the world". These infantry-engineers, on a training mission, received a preview of things to come as the USAF's new swept-wing fighter, the Republic F-84F Thunderjet, loaded with inert 1000-lb. bombs and five-inch rockets, passed overhead during the flight tests. Photo: 8 x 10 Vintage 50's photo in excellent condition on fiber based paper dated 1/16/51. Photo ID on reverse: H 10460. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor (a/c 6680) Description: Redesignated From XP-91 to XF-91 in 1948. This aircraft is on display at WPAFB Museum. Only two prototypes were build. The second aircraft, a/c 681's engine failed on takeoff summer 1951 at Edwards AFB, requiring an immediate landing. The pilot exited the burning airframe just as the tail melted off. By the time the fire trucks got there, the plane was entirely reduced to ashes. Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition with a few minor handling crease. On a fiber based paper with Republic Aviation stamp on reverse. |
| U.S. Navy - Vought XF8U-1 CRUSADER (a/c 138899) Description: Blue description on reverse reads, "CVPR-383 - - Ground view of the new Navy-Vought F8U-1 Crusader supersonic dayfighter, the world's fastest Navy fighter plane." Has wax marker on reverse that reads, " #1 XF8U-1, now in Smithsonian". There was only two XF8U-1 models made, a/c 138899 & 138900. The third, a/c 138901 was cancelled. a/c 138899 was donated to Smithsonian Institution and placed in storage at Silver Hill facility in Suitland, MD. Plane is now in restoration facility of Museum of Flight, Seattle, WA. a/c 138900 was scrapped after 460 flights. Photo: 8 x 10 in good condition with purple Navy release on reverse, on a fiber based paper. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic YF-84F THUNDERSTREAK (A/C 92430) Description: Aircraft was originally on F-84E contract as YF-96A. Later modified as YRF-84F parasite fighter in combination with GRB-36F. Now on display at USAF Museum, Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio. From 1952 to 1956, the Fighter Conveyer (FICON) program investigated the potential of carrying various models of the Republic F-84's in the bomb bay of a B-36 Peacemaker, GRB-36F, as seen here. B-36 (a/c92707) was used in FICON (seen here) and TOM-TOM project tests. The aircraft was redesignated GRB-36F 1951-52, the redesignated again as JRB-36F after 1955. Photo: Photo in good condition on fiber based paper with "Official Air Force Photo" stamp on reverse. A typed description reads, Republic sweptwing F-84F "parasite" is shown just prior to contact with the retrieving mechanism of a Convair RB-36F carrier plane. The development marks the first known accomplishment of flying a full sized combat aircraft from a "mother" plane. |
| U.S. Navy Douglas XF4D-1 SKYRAY (a/c 124587) Photo: Three sets of stamps on reverse; Photo Library dated OCT 6, 1953, "DOUGLAS XF4D-1" bold stamp, and the official "Douglas Aircraft Company" stamp on reverse. A Douglas News release is attached to reverse over the XF4D-1 stamp. Since photo is date stamped Oct. 6, 1953, and the record was set on Oct. 3, 1953, this photo is most likely showing USN Navy Pilot Lt. Cmdr. Verdin on the day of the record flight. Description: New release on reverse reads, "The spectacular Douglas F4D Skyray, Navy jet interceptor, which set an official world's speed record for 753.4 mph, and the two pilots who know her best. At right is Bob Rahn, Douglas engineering test pilot who handled the speedy Skyray during test flights prior to the time it was turned over to the Navy, and Lt. Cmdr. James B. Verdin, USN, who was at the controls during the record flight at the Salton Sea, California, on Oct. 3. The F4D is in production at the Douglas El Segundo Division" |
| U.S. Air Force - Douglas X-3 Stiletto (a/c 92892) Photo: Vintage B/W glossy on fiber based paper in good to excellent condition. Description: I believe this to be an early photo of the X-3 either prior to or just being delivered to Edwards. The paint scheme is unlike any I've seen for a/c 92892. With the first flight in October of 1952, this photo paper is appears to be of early 50's vintage. The Douglas C-124 in the photo is a/c 265406, originally designated as Douglas C-74 Globemaster I. It was converted to YC-124 in 1949 and reserialed 48-795, to be the first prototype of the Douglas C-124A Globemaster II. Photo still shows the earlier serial # as the C-74, however, it appears that the conversion already took place. Any additional information would be appreciated. I believe the X-3 was delivered to Edwards with the C-124. |
| U.S. Navy - Convair XFY-1 POGO Photo: 8 x 10 vintage B/W glossy on fiber based paper with Convair stamp on reverse with Photo ID: N34807. A Convair photo release is attached to reverse as well. Description: Convair photo release reads, "Its six-bladed propeller in full lift, the Convair XFY-1 climbs from the Moffett Naval Air Station runway August 1 in first vertical takeoff by a fighter aircraft. Hear from engine exhaust distorts horizon slightly. On a subsequent flight, the plane reached and altitude of 150 feet. Additional flights of the 500-mile-an-hour fighter, including transition to horizontal flight, will be made at Brown Navel Auxiliary Air Station near San Diego, Calif." |
| NACA Boeing B-47A Stratojet & Douglas D-558-2 Skyrocket ac 37974 Photo: A Vintage B/W glossy on fiber based paper in excellent condition. NACA developed photo from 1954 with NACA photo ID on reverse: 147904. Current NASA photo ID is E-1433. Description: The Douglas D-558-ll is a research aircraft while the Boeing B-47A Stratojet is a production bomber and very different in size. Both contributed to the studies for swept back wing research. The B-47A (49-1900 - NACA 150) bomber was the first in the series of tail numbers to be built at the Boeing Aircraft Company in Witchita, Kansas. NACA High-Speed Flight Research Station obtained that B-47A Stratojet to study the characteristics of a large, flexible swept-wing aircraft in 1953. The Douglas D-558-2 "Skyrockets" were among the early transonic research airplanes like the X-1, X-4, X-5, and X-92A. Photo showing D-558-2 #2 (BuNo 37974 - NACA 144). |
| U.S. Air Force - Convair YB-58A-1 Hustler (a/c 50660) Photo: 8 x 10 B/W glossy on fiber based paper. Photo in good condition with official Convair stamp on reverse with photo ID: 30-4729. Convair Photo Release reads, "NATION'S FIRST SUPERSONIC BOMBER. The Convair B-68 is now being flight tested at the Fort Worth plant of General Dynamics' Convair Division. The United States Air Force has ordered the new The aircraft was later redesignated as B-58A. Attached detailed faster-than-sound bomber into initial production. Called "Hustler," the delta-winged B-58 carries a three-man crew. It is about 95 feet long and has a wingspan of approximately 55 feet. Powered by four General Electric J-79 engines, the Convair B-58 is designed to operate at altitudes above 50,000 feet. Photo release date 2-5-57". |
| U.S. Air Force - Convair YB-58A-1 Hustler (a/c 50660) Photo: 8 x 10 B/W glossy on fiber based paper. Photo in good condition with official Convair stamp on reverse with photo ID: 30-4544. Description: The aircraft was later redesignated as B-58A. Attached detailed Convair Photo Release reads, "NATION'S FIRST SUPERSONIC BOMBER. The Convair B-68 is now being flight tested at the Fort Worth plant of General Dynamics' Convair Division. The United States Air Force has ordered the new faster-than-sound bomber into initial production. Called "Hustler," the delta-winged B-58 carries a three-man crew. It is about 95 feet long and has a wingspan of approximately 55 feet. Powered by four General Electric J-79 engines, the Convair B-58 is designed to operate at altitudes above 50,000 feet. Photo release date 2-5-57". |
| U.S. Air Force - Convair YB-58A-1 Hustler (a/c 50660) Photo: 8 x 10 B/W glossy on fiber based paper. Photo in good condition with official Convair stamp on reverse with photo ID: 30-4727. Description: The aircraft was later redesignated as B-58A. Attached detailed Convair Photo Release reads, "NATION'S FIRST SUPERSONIC BOMBER. The Convair Division. The United States Air Force has ordered the new faster-than-sound bomber into initial production. Called "Hustler," the delta-winged B-58 carries a three-man crew. It is about 95 feet long and has a wingspan of approximately 55 feet. Powered by four General Electric J-79 engines, the Convair B-58 is designed to operate at altitudes above 50,000 feet. Photo release date 2-5-57". |
| U.S. Air Force - Martin Company XA-45 (XB-51) (a/c 6685) Photo: Late 40's vintage 8 x 10 on fiber based paper with Martin Co. description attached to reverse. Martin photo I.D. on lower front: P-37516. Description: This Aircraft was redesignated XB-51 in 1948, as seen in this photo. This aircraft, 6685 was used in the filming of "Toward the Unknown". Crashed on takeoff from El Paso, TX Mar 25, 1956. Both crew members killed. This is the first of only two prototypes made. |
| U.S. Air Force / NASA Vintage B/W Glossy - Martin SV-5J Photo: 8 X 10 on fiber based paper in excellent condition. Description: In the form of the Martin Marietta Corporation, Martin returned to piloted aircraft production in 1965 with SV-5 piloted lifting body research vehicle, built as SV-5J with J-85 or J-60 jet engine and as SV-5P or X-24A with XLR- 11 rocket engine. The Martin SV-5 was the model number, derived from the designation given to the shape of the lifting body, for the X-23 & X-24 Lifting Body research programmes. On their own initiative, Martin designed and built two examples of the SV-5J. The SV-5J was a jet-powered version of the Rocket powered X-24A. Martin also manufactured a full-scale, unfly-able, mock-up of the SV-5J. (Confusion over number built may be due to the mock-up being included in the production list). As seen in photo, you can see the air intake under the fuselage. |
| U.S. Air Force / NASA - Lockheed YF-12A (a/c 06935) Photo: NASA Photo # E-23090. Photo has NASA detailed press release taped to reverse from the Flight Research Center, Edwards AFB. Photo is in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Description: The Lockheed YF-12 was an American prototype interceptor aircraft, which the United States Air Force evaluated as a development of the highly-secret Lockheed A-12 that also spawned the now-famous SR-71 Blackbird. a/c 6935 on display at WPAFB Museum, Dayton, OH. |
| U.S. Air Force / NASA - Lockheed YF-12A (a/c 06934) Photo: 8 X 10 B/W glossy in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Nice photo! Description: The Lockheed YF-12 was an American prototype interceptor aircraft, which the United States Air Force evaluated as a development of the highly-secret Lockheed A-12 that also spawned the now-famous SR-71 Blackbird. a/c 6934 transformed into SR-71C 64-17981 |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Republic YP-84A-5 Thunderjet (a/c 559485) Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with purple AAF text description on reverse. AAF Photo ID: A-32987 Description: This aircraft is one of the earliest P-84A's built. Photo circa 1947. Text on reverse reads," NEW AAF JET PLANE, THE THUNDERJET, This is the Republic P-84 Thunderjet, newest jet-propelled fighter plane of the Army Air Forces. The P-84 flew 619 miles an hour during a test at Muroc, California, Army Air Base in October, 1946" |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Consolidated XB-36 Peacemaker Prototype (a/c 213570) Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Description: Photo showing the XB-36 next to a B-29B Superfortress (484027) to show a size comparison. |
| U.S. Navy Douglas XA4D-1 Skyhawk (a/c 137812) Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition with McDonnell Douglas stamp on reverse. Description: The A4D/A-4 Skyhawk is one of the most successful military aircraft of the postwar era. It entered service with the US Navy in late 1956 and served with distinction for many years. The Douglas XA4D-1 prototype, USN Bureau number 137812, first of 2,960 Skyhawk fighter-bombers. It first flew on 22 June 1954. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American X-15, Pilot Maj. Robert White mach 6 record. (Signed) Photo: A vintage original photo on a nice early 60's circa fiber based paper. Robert White standing besides the X-15A # 2 he just flew to a records speed of 4,092 mph. You find many reprints of this photo, but this vintage original is hard to come by. Description: Robert White was the first to fly Mach 4,5 & 6, the first to fly in excess of 3000 mph, the first to fly above 200,000’ and 300,000’; was to become the first man to fly a winged vehicle into space. |
| U.S. Navy - McDonnell XFD-1 Phantom Test Pilot (XFD-1 Prototype #2) Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with purple Navy text on reverse. Description: 21 July 1946 Photo, The Phantom, XFD-1, the Navy's first completely jet powered airplane successfully completed its carrier qualification test aboard the mighty new carrier, the U.S.S. Franklin D. Roosevelt. Test Pilot Lt. Com. J.J. Davidson, talks to Vice Admiral Arthur W. Radford, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Air, and Vice Admiral Gerald F. Bogan, Commander Air Forces, Atlantic Fleet, before taking the Phantom off the Roosevelt's deck in a history making flight. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Republic XP-84 Thunderjet (a/c 559475) Description: Serial #1 of the XP-84's and appears to sitting on the dry lake bed at Edwards. First flown by test pilot Jack Bade 28 FEB 1946 Photo ( Left ): 8 x 10 in excellent + condition on a fiber based paper with the official AAF stamp on reverse from Wright Field. Photo ( Right) : 8 x 10 in excellent on a fiber based paper. US Army A.A.F. photo stamp on reverse. Photo furnished by Headquarters, A.A.F. AC/AS-2 |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Consolidated-Vultee XB-46 (a/c 559582) Photo: 8 x 10 vintage B/W glossy in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. The Consolidate Vultee Aircraft Corp stamp on reverse with photo ID F109-207. Description: a true vintage photo prior to becoming Convair. Shown at Lindbergh Field, San Diego, Calif. Three were assigned serial numbers to be made but only one prototype was made. The other two serial #'s were reassigned. |
| U.S. Air Force -McDonnell XP-88A Voodoo (a/c 6526) Photo: Vintage B/W glossy with McDonnell douglas stamp on reverse on a Kodak paper. Photo taken in July of 1950. Description: On June 20, 1946, the USAAF awarded McDonnell a contract for two XP-88 prototypes. Serials were 46-525 and 46-526. The second prototype (46-526) was redesignated XF-88A, and was fitted with the afterburning XJ34-WE-15 engines. It was also fitted with bladder fuel cells in the wings to increase internal fuel capacity to 834 gallons. The XF-88A made its first flight on April 26, 1949. The performance improvement was apparent --- maximum speed at sea level was almost 700 mph, time to climb to 30,000 feet was cut to 4 minutes, and takeoff run was reduced by 20 percent. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Consolidated Vultee (Convair) XP-92A (a/c 6682) Photo: 8 x 10 B/W glossy in excellent condition on fiber based paper with the Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corp. stamp on reverse from Lindbergh Field, Calif. aircraft was redesignated XF-92A in 1948. This must be a very early photo, if not one of the first, of the XP-92A during first flight tests.. Description: Delta-wing fighter prototype. Originally it was planned the operational aircraft would be boosted by 6 x 900 kgf RL-11 liquid rocket engines, but the airplane never flew in this configuration. In August of 1945, the USAAF announced a competition for a supersonic interceptor capable of reaching an altitude of 50,000 feet in four minutes and capable of achieving a maximum speed of 700 mph. A tall order for 1945! A team from Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation (better known as Convair) won the competition in May of 1946. The Convair design proposal was for a ramjet-powered aircraft with wing sweep of 45 degrees. The designation XP-92 was assigned to the project. |
| U.S. Navy - McDonnell XF2D-1 Banshee (a/c 99859) Photo: 8 x 10 B/W glossy in excellent condition with McDonnell Douglas stamp on reverse with photo ID D4E 7094. Photo date: May 1947. Later redesignated XF2H-1. Only three BuNos of the XF4D-1. 99858, 99859, & 99860. |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XA3D-1 Skywarrior (a/c 125412 or 125413) Photo: 8 x 10 B/W glossy in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with Douglas Aircraft stamp on reverse and photo ID ES 180475 Description: 125412 diverted to ground training, Memphis TN. 125413 was on display aboard USS Intrepid, New York, now (2005) at Johnstown-Fulton Co, NY. |
| U.S. Air Force Flight Surgeons Convair B-58 Hustler Orientation Photos: Both 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. Description: Air Force Flight Surgeons are poising for a PR photo with the new Convair B-58 Hustler during their aircraft orientation at the Convair facility in Fort Worth Texas. |
| U.S. Army - Bell XV-3 Convertiplane (a/c 4147) Photo: This is an 8 x 10 vintage B/W press photo released on 28 Sep 1955. U.S. Army purple detailed press-type description on reverse. Photo is in good condition on a fiber based paper. Keystone stamps on reverse as well. Description: On reverse reads, "The XVS convertiplane, built by the Bell Aircraft Corporation, U.S.A., seen in flight. For the first flight, the craft ascended to a height of 30 feet. The plane is capable of both vertical ascent and descent and with repositioning of the twin rotors adopts the flight advantages of conventional aircraft. It can carry four persons or two litter patients, medical attendant and pilot or equivalent weight in cargo. |
| X-15; B/W Glossy - NASA Photo ID: E-7540 Photo: 8 X 10 vintage original in excellent condition on a fiber based paper Description: |
| X-15; B/W Glossy - NASA Photo ID: E-7540 Photo: 8 X 10 vintage original in excellent condition on a fiber based paper Description: |
| U.S. Air Force - Douglas X-3 STILETTO (a/c 92892) Photo: 8X10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with blue U.S. Air Force detailed text on reverse. Photo has released date 6:00 PM, EST, Monday November 16, 1953 Description: Test on reverse reads, "The Air Force's X-3 research aircraft is shown in the first released photo as the Air Force prepared to turn the flying laboratory over to the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) for further research. The X-3 was designed and built by the Douglas Santa Monica Division under joint sponsorship of the Air Force, NACA, and the Navy. The project was directed by the Air Research and development Command to test design features of an aircraft suitable for sustained flights at extremely high speeds..." |
| U.S. Air Force - Douglas X-3 STILETTO (a/c 92892) Photo: 8X10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with blue U.S. Air Force detailed text on reverse. Photo has released date 6:00 PM, EST, Monday November 16, 1953 Description: Test on reverse reads, "The Air Force's X-3 research aircraft is shown in the first released photo as the Air Force prepared to turn the flying laboratory over to the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) for further research. The X-3 was designed and built by the Douglas Santa Monica Division under joint sponsorship of the Air Force, NACA, and the Navy. The project was directed by the Air Research and development Command to test design features of an aircraft suitable for sustained flights at extremely high speeds..." |
| U.S. Air Force - Convair XF-92A (a/c 6682) Photo: Vintage 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with Convair Photo release taped to reverse. Photo Release date 5-31-51. Description: Photo release reads: This is the Convair XF-92A, formerly Model 7002, world's first delta wing aircraft. Photo was taken at Edwards Air Force Base research plane are being tested... |
| U.S. Air Force - Bell X-1A (a/c 81384) Photo: A vintage 8 x 10 photo on fiber based paper with the Bell Aircraft Corporation stamp on reverse. Descrption: Records show that the X-1A exploded while suspended under mothership during test Aug 8, 1955. Jettisoned into Edwards AFB range. Chuck Yeager flew this a/c for the unofficial speed record at more then 1600 miles an hour the Saturday before this photo was taken. 6 year earlier, October, 1947, he became the first to fly faster then the speed of sound in the X-1. |
| U.S. Air Force - Bell X-1B (a/c 81385) Photo: A vintage 8 x 10 photo on fiber based paper with the Bell Aircraft Corporation stamp on reverse. Description: The X-1B completed a total of 27 flights. A notable achievement was the installation of a system of small reaction rockets used for directional control, making the X-1B the first aircraft to fly with this sophisticated control system, later used in the X-15. Bell X-1B used for aerodynamic heat research and later to train X-2 pilots. On display at WPAFB Museum. |
| U.S. Air Force - Vintage B/W - Bell X-14 (a/c 64022) Photo: Vintage 8 x 10 photo in excellent condition on fiber based paper with Bell Aircraft Corporation stamp on reverse. Description: The Bell X-14 (Bell Type 68) was an experimental VTOL aircraft flown in the United States in the 1950s. The main objective of the project was to demonstrate horizontal and vertical takeoff, hover, transition to forward flight, and with every major upgrade. This photo is of the earliest version. X-14 - USAF 56-4022 X-14A - NASA 234 (N234NA) X-14B - NASA 704 (N704NA). |
| NACA Douglas D-558-2 Skyrocket (ac 37973) Photo (Left): A B/W glossy in excellent condition with Douglas Aircraft Company stamp on reverse with Douglas photo ID stamp: 97418 Photo (right): A B/W glossy in excellent condition with McDonnell douglas Photo stamp on reverse. Showing first D-558-2. Description: The Douglas Skyrocket (D-558-2 or D-558-II) was a rocket and jet-powered supersonic research aircraft built by the Douglas Aircraft Company for the United States Navy. Douglas pilot John F. Martin made the first flight at Muroc Army Airfield (later renamed Edwards Air Force Base) in California on 4 February 1948 in an aircraft equipped only with the jet engine. On November 20, 1953, shortly before the 50th anniversary of powered flight, Scott Crossfield piloted the Douglas D-558-2 Skyrocket to Mach 2, or more than 1,290 mph (2076 km/h), the first time an aircraft had exceeded twice the speed of sound. |
| U.S. Air Force / NASA - Convair F-106B-31-CO Delta Dart (ac 72516) Photo: 8 X 10 B/W NASA glossy in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Blue NASA detailed text on reverse with NASA Photo ID: 66-H-860, Dated Sept. 30, 1968 Description: The speed brakes and regular engine of an F-106B aircraft flanked by two research nacelles being used to test new inlets and nozzles for advanced turbojet engines at the National Aeronautics and Space administration's Lew Research Center in Cleveland, OH. On loan from the Air Force the F-106 is being used as a research facility by Lewis engineers to learn more about the air flow and drag caused by varying the inlet and nozzle configuration on supersonic engines. Used for storm hazard research 1979-1986 and for vortex flap flight experiments 1986-1991. Now on display at Virginia Air and Space Center, Hampton, VA. |
| U.S. Air Force - Bell XS-1 (a/c 6062) Photo: 8 X 10 Vintage original B&W photo on a fiber based paper in excellent condition. Description: Serial number 46-062 is *Glamorous Glennis*, first aircraft to exceed Mach 1, flown by Charles E. Yeager Oct 14, 1947. Now on display in NASM, Washington, DC. |
| U.S. Navy - XF7U-1 CUTLASS - Navy Photo ID: USN 397009 U.S. Navy photograph along with the Defense Dept Photo (Marine Corps) stamp on reverse. Photo has another set of blue printed text with "Official Navy Photo" 8 X 10 vintage original in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Official stamp. Dated 11 Nov. 48. First XF7U-1 flight was only 2 months prior to this photo date. I believe this to 1948, piloted by Vought's Chief Test Pilot, J. Robert Baker. The maiden flight took place from Naval Air Station Patuxent River and was not without its problems. Description: This photo is showing one of only three original prototypes ordered on 25 June 1946. First flight, 29 September 1948, all three aircraft were destroyed in crashes. On reverse, text reads: "XF7U-1 - Experimental model - Fighter (jet) - 2-engine, 1-crew, land/carrier, monoplane - CUTLASS" - by Chance-Vought." |
| U.S. Air Force - North American X-15A Description: Air Force crewman gives the B-52 pilot taxi instructions prior to the carrier plane and X-15 leaving Edwards Air Force Base for a research mission. Photo: 8 X 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. Just a fantastic photo of X-15 history. |
| U.S. Air Force / NASA - Lockheed YF-12A (a/c 06936) Photo: 8 X 10 on a heavier fiber based paper in excellent condition. Description: 6936 lost June 24, 1971. Crew Jack Layton and William Curtis ejected safely. |
| U.S. Air Force Convair YF-102 Delta Dagger (ac 31781) Photo: 8 X 10 B/W on fiber based paper with Holloman A.F.B. stamp on reverse in black. Description: Photo of the YF-102 |
| U.S. Navy - North American YT2J-1 Buckeye (a/c 144217) Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. Description: Prototype single-engined, basic jet trainer for US Navy. Developed from the NA-241 program. Redesignated as YT-2A in 1962. |
| U.S. Air Force - Boeing XB-47 STRATOJET ( a/c 6065) Photo: Nice vintage 8x10 photo in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. |
| NASA Color Photo - JETSTAR - NASA Photo ID: LOC 63C-2681 Description: NASA's plane, the JETSTAR Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with repeating "A KODAK PAPER" watermarks on reverse with RCA and NASA - USAF Photo stamp. |
| NASA B/W Glossy - NASA F-111 Supercritical Wing Program, Photo ID: E-24925 Description: The test pilot on the right is Brigadier General Stuart R. Boyd, commandant of the Air Force Institute of Technology and commandant of the Base, Ohio. The general graduated from the Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., in 1969. He remained there, assigned to the Fighter Test Branch, where he was involved in the F-111 flight test and the supercritical wing test program with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The Pilot on the left is NASA test pilot Einar Enevoldson. In 1974 Enevoldson was awarded the NASA Exceptional Service Medal, for his contributions as NASA Project Pilot on the F-111 Supercritical Wing Program. Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with NASA Photo Id on front boarder. |
| U.S. Air Force - Martin Company XA-45 (XB-51) (a/c 6686?) Photo: Vintage original 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with the Glenn L. Martin Company stamp on reverse. Description: This Aircraft was redesignated XB-51 in 1948. I believe this may be a/c 6686. 686 crashed May 9, 1952 during low-level aerobatics over Edwards AFB, killing the pilot. |
| U.S. Air Force - Northrop YRB-49A (YB-35) (a/c 42-102376) Photo: Vintage original 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Description: A last chance for the flying wing design was the YRB-49, a six-engined reconnaissance bomber, with two engines in underwing nacelles to increase the volume available for fuel. But the RB-49 offered no real advantages over the B-47 and the new B-52, and production was canceled before the single YRB-49 flew on May 4, 1950. This a/c, Northrop YB-35 redesignated YB-35B May 1, 1949. Later converted to YRB-49A |
| U.S. Navy - Vought XF4U-1 (BuNo 1443) Photo: 7.5 x 9.5 vintage original on a fiber based paper with Rudy Arnold Press photo stamp on reverse. Description: In June 1938, the U.S. Navy signed a contract for a prototype, the XF4U-1, BuNo 1443. The Corsair was designed by Rex Beisel and the Vought design team. After mock-up inspection in February 1939, construction of the XF4U-1 powered by an XR-2800-4 engine, rated at 1,805 hp (1,346 kW) went ahead quickly. When the prototype was built it had the biggest and most powerful engine, largest propeller and probably the largest wing on any fighter in history.[9] The first flight of the XF4U-1 was made on 29 May 1940, with Lyman A. Bullard, Jr. at the controls. The maiden flight proceeded normally until a hurried landing was made when the elevator trim tabs failed because of flutter. |
| U.S. Navy - Convair YF-102A Delta Dagger (a/c 31787) Description: 1787 first flight 12/20/1954. Now at NEW ORLEANS (LA), Military Museum. Photo: 8 x 10 vintage original in excellent condition on fiber based paper black text on reverse from the National Air Show 1955. |
| U.S. Navy - Ling-Temco-Vought YA-7A-1-CV Corsair II (BuNo 152582) Photo: 8 X 10 B/W glossy in excellent condition on fiber based paper with LTV Aerospace descriptive text attached to reverse. Description: A-7 Corsair II taking off from runway at LTV Aerospace Corporation plant in Dallas, TX, during flight tests carrying a heavy load of ordnance. Its four outer pylons are loaded with 24 250-pound inert bombs and the inboard pylons have two 300 - gallon fuel tanks. The A-7 can carry its own empty weight -- 15,000 pounds - in pylons, launchers and bombs. |
| U.S. Air Force - Martin Company XA-45 (XB-51) (a/c 6685) Photo: Vintage original 8.5 x 11 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. The Martin Photo ID P37527 is written in pencil on the reverse. Description: This Aircraft was redesignated XB-51 in 1948, as seen in this photo. This aircraft, 6685 was used in the filming of "Toward the Unknown". Crashed on takeoff from El Paso, TX Mar 25, 1956. Both crew members killed. This is the first of only two prototypes made. |
| U.S. Navy - McDonnell XF2D-1 Banshee (a/c 99858) Photo: 8 x 10 B/W glossy in excellent condition with McDonnell Douglas stamp on reverse with photo ID D4E 6142. Photo date: May 1947. Later redesignated XF2H-1. This is BuNos # 1of three XF4D-1. 99858, 99859, & 99860. |
| US Army Air Forces - Bell XP-83 (a/c 44-84990) Photo (Left): 8 x 10 vintage in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. Official Army Air Forces stamp on reverse from Wright Field Intelligence Still Photo section. First of only two serial numbers. Photo dated 2/8/45. Photo (Right): Vintage 8 X 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Description: Serial number one of two XP-83's built. A USAAF contract for two XP-83 prototypes was awarded on July 21, 1944, confirming the Letter Contract of March. Serials were 44-84990 and 44-94991. Only seven months after the awarding of the contract, the first prototype (44-84990) was flown on February 25, 1945 by chief Bell test pilot Jack Woolams. The aircraft proved to be underpowered and somewhat unstable. The close proximity of the turbojets was found to have the unintended side effect of allowing the hot jet exhaust gases to buckle the tail of the plane during run-ups on the ground unless fire trucks were standing by to spray cooling water on the rear fuselage. The first XP-83 was used in a ramjet engine test program, in which a pair of experimental ramjets were slung under the wings. It was intended that the aircraft would be able to fly on ramjet power only, once sufficient flying speed was obtained. A hatch was cut in the belly to provide entry into the aft fuselage, and an engineer's station was provided in the fuselage behind the pilot. However, on September 14, 1946, just as the test program was beginning, one of the ramjets caught fire during a test flight, forcing pilot Chalmers Goodlin and engineer Charles Fay to parachute to safety. The XP-83 was destroyed in the ensuing crash. |
| U.S. Air Force - Cessna X-37-CE (a/c 4716) Description: Photo showing serial #1 of the XT-37 aircraft. This aircraft first flew on 9/12/54. The Cessna XT-37 was the first specifically designed jet trainer and was built by Cessna Aircraft Company in Wichita, Kansas. Initially known as the Cessna Model 318, the prototype was flown in 1954. It had a top speed of 393 mph. The T-37 Tweety Bird or Tweet, referred to as such because of its ear-piercing engine whine that sounds like a fluttery whistle, was later adapted to become the A-37 Dragonfly, a ground attack aircraft used in Vietnam. Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with USAF MATS stamp on reverse. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor (a/c 6681) Description: Redesignated From XP-91 to XF-91 in 1948. Only two prototypes were build. This aircraft, a/c 681's engine failed on takeoff summer 1951 at Edwards AFB, requiring an immediate landing. The pilot exited the burning airframe just as the tail melted off. By the time the fire trucks got there, the plane was entirely reduced to ashes. Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. |
| US Air Force - General Dynamics F-111A - (a/c 39766) Photo: 8 X 10 B/W glossy in excellent condition on fiber based paper with General Dynamic detailed text attached to reverse. Dated 1/15/65 Description: This aircraft, 9766, is preserved at the Air Force Flight Test Center Museum Airpark, Edwards AFB, CA. Supersonic speeds up to Mach 2.5 can be reached by the F-111 tactical fighter built by General Dynamics when its variable wings are swept back against the fuselage in a 72.5-degree position. The wings can be set and held at any |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XF4D-1 SKYRAY Photo: Original McDonnell Douglas Photo with "Douglas Aircraft Company" stamp on reverse. 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. Also stamp on reverse "DOUGLAS XF-4D-1" Description: Photo date 6-1-51. Hand writting on reverse states mach 1 plus June 1951. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Lockheed P-80A-1-LO Shooting Star (a/c 485214) Photo: 8 x 10 vintage in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. with detailed description on reverse. Description: Reverse reads, "RAM JET ENGINES mounted on the wing tips of U.S. Air Force F-80 Shooting Star spurts flames on a test flight for the "flying stovepipes" began nearly a year ago. These 20-inch diameter tubes contain a grid where gasoline is burned with ram air compressed by the airplane's high speed. Ram jets are subsonic thermal jet propulsion units which are being tested as future power plants for aircraft. At present, they are used only in conjunction with regular turbo-jet engines mounted in the airplanes fuselage. The Shooting Star is flown on the power of its Allison engine before the ram jets are ignited. At times, however, this has been turned off and the airplane has been flown by ram jet alone, making the F-80 the first man-carrying aircraft to accomplish this. The ram jets are manufactured by the Marquardt Aviation Co of Venice, California. |
| ( Last Photo Update: March 5, 2011 ) |
| Photo Gallery Selection U.S. Air Force - Page 1 Vintage U.S. Air Force aircraft Photos U.S. Air Force - Page 2 Vintage U.S. Air Force Aircraft Photos U.S. Navy & Marines Vintage USN & Marine Corp Aircraft Photos X - Planes Vintage Prototype and Research & Development Aircraft Photos Missiles & Rockets Vintage photos of Missiles and Unmanned Rockets Mercury Space Program Page 1 Vintage Photos of the Early Mercury Space Program and MR-3 Through MR-4 Missions Mercury Space Program Page 2 Mercury Atlas Missions MA-6 Through MA-9 Vintage Photos Gemini Space Program Page 1 Early Gemini Space Program Vintage Photos Gemini Space Program Page 2 Gemini-Titan Space Missions GT-3 Through GT-5 Vintage Photos Gemini Space Program Page 3 Gemini-Titan Space Missions GT-6 Through GT-8 Vintage Photos Gemini Space Program Page 4 Gemini-Titan Space Missions GT-9 Through GT-12 Vintage Photos Apollo Space Program Page 1 Early Apollo R&D and Unmanned Space Program Vintage Photos Apollo Space Program Page 2 Vintage Photos of Apollo AS-1, AS-7, AS-8, AS-9 & AS10 Apollo Space Program Page 3 Vintage Photos of the Apollo 11 Moon Mission Apollo Space Program Page 4 Vintage Photos of Apollo Missions AS-12 and AS-13 Apollo Space Program Page 5 Vintage Photos of Apollo Missions AS-14 and AS-15 Apollo Space Program Page 6 Vintage Photos of Apollo Missions AS-16 and AS-17 (Included are some Skylab and Space Shuttle Photos) Signed Photos Collection of Autographed Photos Photos For Sales Photos for sales from my collection |
| Photograph Collection |
| WWW.STELLAR-VIEWS.COM |
| R&D and Prototype Aircraft |
| General Dynamics YF-16 Fighting Falcon & LT. General Thomas P. Stafford Description: A set of U.S. Air Force photos of LT. General Thomas P. Stafford at Edwards Air Force Base. the Top left photo shows Stafford in YF-16, Serial number 72- 01567A. This a/c was modified as CCV test vehicle. Restored to original configuration for display at Hampton Roads History Center, Virginia. Seen Dec 2006 at Virginia Air and Space Center, Hampton, VA. If anyone has information regarding Stafford activities with the F-16, please let me know. Photos: All photos are vintage period photo with USAF photo ID's and printed on Kodak paper with repeating "THIS PAPER MANUFACTURED BY KODAK" watermarks on reverse. |
| US Air Force XB-70 The First NASA Flight B/W Glossy - NASA Photo ID: 67-H-503 Description: Text on reverse reads: "April 25, 1967 -- Edwards, California -- (L-R) Pilots for the XB-70 first flight Col. Joe Cotton, U.S. Air Force and Fritz Fulton, NASA pilot pose in front of the XB-70 aircraft. The XB-70 made its first flight April 25, 1967 under program management by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in continuation of a joint NASA-Air Force agreement. The XB-70 research program is to investigate dynamic loads, and to define and evaluate stability and control characteristics and handling qualities of large supersonic vehicles in support of the National Supersonic Transport Program." Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with blue NASA detailed text on reverse. |
| Elliot See and Lockheed F-104A-5 Starfighter B&W Glossy Description: Edwards, Calif. Test Pilot Elliot See poses with General Electric's program team. Elliot See had been a US Navy pilot as well as a flight test engineer and experimental test pilot with General Electric. His work on jet engine development had earned him 3,900 flight hours in such aircraft as the F-86, XF4D, F-104, F11F-1F, RB-66, F4H, and T-38. In September 1962, See was selected for astronaut training. Aircraft in Photo: Lockheed F-104A-5-LO Starfighter, a/c 56-742: To GE Flight Test Jun 1957. Performed accelerated service tests on J79. Crashed on landing approach at Edwards AFB, Jun 23, 1959 when split flap condition occurred. Pilot ejected but was too low and was killed. Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Bell YP-59A Airacomet (a/c 2108772) Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. Description: The YB-59A is shown on the dry lake bed at Muroc. |
| NASA HL-10 Lifting Body, B/W Photo - NASA Photo ID: 66-H-6 Description: 18 January 1966 -- A outstanding view looking down on the HL-10 lifting body re-entry vehicle after rollout. NASA pilot Milt Thompson and a Northrop technician prepare to open the canopy. Photo: 8 x 10 in near mint condition on a fiber based paper with blue NASA detailed text on reverse. |
| NASA M2-F2 Lifting Body, B/W Photo - NASA Photo ID: 65-H-998 Description: 15 June 1965 -- M2-F2 lifting body after rollout at the Northrop Corporation facilities in Hawthorne, California. Attached description reads, This M2-F2 lifting body research vehicle was delivered to NASA (June 15, 1965) by Northrop Corporation in ceremonies at the company's Hawthorne, Calif., facilities. The M2-F2- will be flown by NASA and U.S. Air Force pilots. It will be dropped from a B-52 bomber at 45,000 feet and will glide to conventional airplane-type landings. These flights are expected to demonstrate how future lifting body space vehicles would behave in the earth's atmosphere during the critical period between re-entry and landing. Photo: 8 x 10 in near mint condition on a fiber based paper with Northrop release taped to reverse. |
| NASA HL-10 Lifting Body, Color Photo - NASA Photo ID: ENC-2351 Description: 3 November 1969 -- The HL-10 lifting body hangs from the wing pylon mount of the NASA B-52 launch aircraft as the mated pair climb above Rogers Dry Lake for a research flight. Photo: 8 x 10 in near excellent condition on a fiber based paper with repeating "A KODAK PAPER" watermarks on reverse. |
| NASA HL-10 Lifting Body, B/W Photo - NASA Photo ID: E-16205 Description: 22 December 1966 - The HL-10 lifting body vehicle piloted by Bruce Peterson prepares to make its first landing at Rogers Dry Lake on December 22, 1966. Photo: 8 x 10 in good condition on a fiber based paper |
| NASA M2-F2 Lifting Body, B/W Photo - NASA Photo ID: E-15592 Description: 2 September 1966 -- M2-F2 lifting body mated under the wing of its B-52 launch aircraft during takeoff. Photo: 8 x 10 in near excellent condition on a fiber based paper. |
| NASA M2-F3 Lifting Body, B/W Photo - NASA Photo ID: E-22786 Description: January 1971 -- Three chase planes fly over the NASA M2-F3 lifting body in a salute following a rocket-powered flight in the experimental vehicle. Photo: 8 x 10 in near mint condition on a fiber based paper with description taped to reverse. |
| NASA M2-F3 Lifting Body, B/W Photo - NASA Photo ID: E-21533 Description: 19 June 1970 -- The M2-F3 Lifting Body is seen here on the lake bed at the NASA Flight Research Centre. The May 1967 crash of the M2-F2 had damaged both the external skin and the internal structure of the lifting body. At first, it seemed that the vehicle had been irreparably damaged, but the original manufacturer, Northrop, did the repair work and returned the redesigned M2-F3 with a centre fin for stability to the Flight Research Centre. Photo: 8 x 10 in near mint condition on a fiber based paper |
| NASA M2-F3 Lifting Body, B/W Photo - NASA Photo ID: 70-H-841 Description: 2 June 1970 -- NASA test pilot Bill Dana watches the B-52 launch aircraft fly over in a salute following the first flight of the M2-F3 lifting body. Photo: 8 x 10 in near mint condition on a fiber based paper with blue NASA descriptive text on reverse. |
| XF4D-1 SKYRAY CARRIER EVALUATION SET |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XF4D-1 SKYRAY on CVA-43 (BuNo 124586) Description: The interceptor is catapulted from the Aircraft Carrier USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) in the Atlantic as the XF4D-1 undergoes carrier evaluation test. Photo: 8X10 in Excellent condition and dated 29 Oct 53. Official Navy photo stamp on reverse and Associated Press London stamp. |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XF4D-1 SKYRAY on CVA-43 (BuNo 124586) Photo: Official Navy stamp on reverse with detailed description. Also has Associated Press stamp from London. 8X10 in excellent condition. Description: The XF4D is being brought topside to the flight deck of the Aircraft Carrier USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) on a plane elevator as the plane prepares to undergo carrier evaluation tests in the Atlantic ocean off Norfolk, VA. |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XF4D-1 SKYRAY on CVA-43 (BuNo 124586) Description: The interceptor makes it's first carrier landing aboard the Aircraft Carrier USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) in the Atlantic as the XF4D-1 undergoes carrier evaluation test. Photo: 8X10 in Excellent condition and dated 29 Oct 53. Official Navy photo stamp on reverse. |
Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper. Description: The Navy Bureau of Aeronautics was sufficiently impressed with the G-98 proposal that on April 27, 1953 they ordered two flying prototypes (BuNo 138604 and 138605) plus a static-test airframe (BuNo 138603). Even though the G-98 now bore no relationship whatsoever to the F9F-6/F9F-7 Cougar, the Navy assigned the designation XF9F-8 to the project. Four months later, the Navy changed its mind and reassigned the XF9F-8 designation to the G-99 project, which WAS a straightforward derivative of the basic F9F-6/F9F-7 Cougar, and redesignated the new G-98 as XF9F-9, which confused just about everyone. Work on the XF9F-9 proceeded rapidly and the first flying prototype was available in July of 1954. However, the afterburning J65 engine was still not available, and a non-afterburning Wright J65-W-7 turbojet rated at 7500 lb.s.t. was fitted for the initial trials. XF9F-9 BuNo 138604 took to the air for the first time on July 30, 1954, test pilot Corwin "Corky" Meyer being at the controls. In spite of the use of the non-afterburning engine, the aircraft almost achieved Mach 1 on its first flight, which further increased the Navy's confidence in the design. The second prototype (BuNo 138605) took to the air for the first time on October 2, 1954. On October 20, 1954, XF9F-9 BuNo 138604 crashed at the edge of a wooded area near the Grumman Calverton facility on Long Island following an engine flameout. The pilot, LtCdr W.H. Livingston, survived the crash, but the aircraft was too heavily damaged to be repaired. |
| U.S. Air Force - Martin Company XA-45 (XB-51) (a/c 6685) Photo: Vintage original 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper. The Martin Photo ID: P39798. Description: Showing the only two XB-51s made. The Martin XA-45 Redesignated XB-51 in 1948. 685 used in filming of "Toward the Unknown". Crashed on takeoff from El Paso, TX Mar 25, 1956. Both crew members killed. 686 crashed May 9, 1952 during low-level aerobatics over Edwards AFB, killing the pilot. |
| U.S. Air Force - Northrop YB-49 (YB-35) - a/c 42-102367 Photo: Vintage original 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with photo ID 7255 on reverse. Description: This a/c was converted to YB-49. Reclamation authorized by Northrop; for AMC Jun 28, 1950. With the XB-35 Flying Wing program seriously behind schedule by 1944, and the end of piston-engined combat aircraft in sight, the production contract for this propeller driven type was cancelled in May of that year. Nevertheless, the Flying Wing design was still sufficiently interesting to the Air Force that work was continued on testing a single YB-35A production aircraft. Among the aircraft later completed were two airframes that the Air Force ordered be fitted with jet propulsion and designated as YB-49s. |
| U.S. Air Force - Convair XF-92A (a/c 6682) Photo: Vintage 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corp. stamp on reverse with photo ID N20927 This a/c was redesignated XF-92A in 1948. 683 and 684 not built. 682 seen at USAF Museum, WPAFB, OH Jul 2005. |
| U.S. Air Force - Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor (a/c 6680) Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with Republic Aviation stamp and description on reverse. Reverse reads, Republic XF-91, High Altitude Interceptor Flighter, (Experiemental), Powered by Turbo Jet Engine and Rocket Motors, Developed and built by republic Aviation Corporation, Farmindael, L.I., N.Y. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - Martin XB-48 (a/c 559585) Photo: Vintage original 8.5 x 11 B/W Glossy in excellent condition on fiber based paper with the Glenn L. Martin Company stamp on reverse. Martin photo ID P-32698 Description: The Martin XB-48 was a medium jet bomber developed in the mid-1940s. It never saw production or active duty, and only two prototypes, serial numbers 45-59585 and 45-59586, were built. First Flight: 22 June 1947. Project cancelled 1948 |
| US Air Force XB-70 Crash - News Wire photo - Dated June 8, 1966 Description: A vintage original news wire photo on the day of the XB-70 crash. On 8 June 1966, XB-70A #2 was in close formation with four other aircraft (an F-4, F-5, T-38, and F-104) for a photoshoot at the behest of General Electric, manufacturer of the engines of all five aircraft. With the photoshoot complete, the F-104 drifted into contact with the XB-70's right wing, flipped over, and rolling inverted, passed over the top of the Valkyrie, struck the vertical stabilizers and left wing and exploded, destroying the Valkyrie's rudders and damaging its left wing. With the loss of both rudders and damage to the wings, the Valkyrie entered an uncontrollable spin and crashed into the ground north of Barstow, California. NASA Chief Test Pilot Joe Walker (F-104 pilot) and Carl Cross (XB-70 co-pilot) were killed, while Al White (XB-70 pilot) ejected, sustaining serious injuries, including one arm being crushed as it was caught in the clamshell-like escape capsule as it closed around him just before ejection from the aircraft. |
| U.S. Air Force - Bell XS-1 (a/c 6062) Photo: 8 X 10 Vintage original B&W photo on a fiber based paper in excellent condition. Description: Serial number 46-062 is *Glamorous Glennis*, first aircraft to exceed Mach 1, flown by Charles E. Yeager Oct 14, 1947. Now on display in NASM, Washington, DC. |
| Lifting Body Flight profile Photo, B/W Photo - NASA Photo ID: 66-H-583 Description: Text on reverse reads, The lifting body vehicle concept is being investigated by NASA to help establish the technological base for design of future manned re-entry vehicles. Lifting bodies are wingless and obtain aerodynamic lift solely from their rounded half-cone shapes as they speed through the atmosphere. Unlike current manned flight spacecraft, lifting bodies are designed to employ orbital energy and aerodynamic lift for in-flight maneuvering and a glide landing at selected ground sites rather than parachute into the ocean. Experimental flights are conducted at the NASA Flight Research Center near Lancaster, Calif. Photo: 8 x 10 in near mint condition on a fiber based paper with blue NASA detailed text on reverse. Dated: June 2, 1966 |
| U.S. Navy - McDonnell XF2D-1 Banshee Descriptive Arrangement Photo Photo: vintage 8 x 10 in excellent condition with McDonnell Aircraft Corporation stamp on reverse. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American X-15, Pilot Maj. Robert White USAF Photo ID: 164270 Photo: A 8 x 10 vintage original photo on a fiber based paper with blue US Air Force text on reverse. USAF Photo ID on lower front. Description: Text on reverse reads: Major Robert M. White shown in cockpit of the X-15 research aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base, California upon completion of his high altitude flight. During this flight, the X-15 reached an altitude of approximately 136,500 Ft., 12 Aug. 1960. U.S. Air Force Official Photo" |
| U.S. Air Force, X-15 Space Suite -- USAF Photo ID: 164222 Photo: An 8 x 10 vintage original photo in near mint condition of a fiber based paper with blue US Air Force descriptive text on reverse. USAF Photo ID on lower front. Description: Text on reverse reads:Evaluation tests of a "second generation" space suite are in progress at the Air Force Flight Text Center, Edwards Air Force Base, California. The new heat resistant aluminized outer garments, which can be put on within five minutes, we specially tailored to fit X-15 pilots Robert M. White; Joe Walker, NASA; Captain Robert Rushworth; Jack McKay; Neil Armstrong and Lt. Commander Forrest S. Peterson of the Navy. Nitrogen maintains pressure in the lower part of the suit, while oxygen is fed through a seal that fits around the pilot's face..." |
| U.S. Air Force - North American X-15, Pilot Maj. Robert White U.S. Air Force Photo ID: 164268 Photo: A 8 x 10 vintage original photo on a fiber based paper with blue US Air Force text on reverse. USAF Photo ID on lower front. Edwards AFB Description: Text on reverse reads: U.S. Air Force's X-15 research aircraft, piloted by Maj. Robert White streaks in for touchdown at Edwards AFB, Calif. Built by North American Aviation, inc. for a joint NASA - USAF - Navy program of manned space flight, the X-15 reached an altitude of approximately 136,500 ft. during this flight. 12 Aug. 1960." "Official U.S. Air Force Photo" NOTE: The chase plane is an F-104A-15. It was sent to Jordon in 1969. |
| U.S. Air Force - Convair B-58- Hustler Record Breaking Flight (a/c 59-2451) Photo: 8 x 10 B/W glossy on fiber based paper in excellent condition with USAF attached description. US Air Force Photo ID: 165312. Description: Text on reverse reads: USAF - Record Paris Flight -- Air Force B-58 HUSTLER which made a record crossing of the Atlantic today, May 26, 1961, flying the New York to Paris run in 3 hours-20 minutes. shown above, The B-58 is completing an aerial refueling operation from a KC-135 tanker over Front Royal, VA, this morning shortly before crossing Washington at 7:26 AM, EDT. Aircraft commander of the Strategic Air Command aircraft Maj. william R. Payne of Talihina, Okla. HISTORY NOTE: One of the records was achieved on May 10, 1961, by 59-2451 of the 43rd BW, crewed by Maj. Elmer Murphy, Maj. Eugene Moses, and Lt. David Dickerson. After departing Edwards AFB, they flew a 669.4 mile (1,073 kilometer) closed course at an average speed of 1,302.07 mph for more than 30 minutes (the actual record setting time for the circuit was 30 minutes 43 seconds), thus winning outright the prestigious Bleriot Trophy. Some two weeks later on May 26, 59-2451, nicknamed The Firefly of the 43rd BW, enroute to the 1961 Paris Airshow with Maj. William Payne, Capt. William Polhelmus, and Capt. Raymond Wagener as crew, set a New York-to-Paris speed record, covering the 3,626.46 statute miles in 3 hours 19 minutes and 58 seconds (average speed was approximately 1,089.36 mph). The crew was awarded the prestigious Mackay and Harmon Trophies for this flight. Sadly, the return flight crew, consisting of Maj. Elmer Murphy, Maj. Eugene Moses, and Lt. David Dickerson, the same crew that had won the Bleriot Trophy some two weeks earlier, crashed in 59-2451 on June 3, following departure from Le Bourget. |
| U.S. Air Force - Martin Company XA-45 (XB-51) Pilot Photo: Vintage original 8 x 10 in fair condition on fiber based paper with the Glenn L. Martin Company press release attached to the reverse. Photo ID P-38399 Description: Press release reads: April 14, 1950. TEE FOR TOMORROW -- Distinctive T-tail of the Martin XB-51, first jet powered ground support bomber of the U.S. Air Force, follows the super-streamlined theme of the entire aircraft. The Air Force recently took delivery of the sleek craft, which completed Phase One tests in the record time of 150 days, to conduct Phase Tow flight tests. Here, Capt. Lee Horn (right), USAF test pilot discusses flight plans with Robert Matt, Air Force civilian flight test engineer from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. |
| U.S. Navy A3J VIGILANTE Record Flight Photo: 8 x 10 on fiber based paper in excellent condition with Blue Navy detailed text on reverse.. USN Photo ID: 710835 Description: Reverse text reads: 16 DEC 1960 -- Navy Liuetenant Henry L. Monro, (left), and Commander Leroy A. Heath, USN, stand on front of the North American A3J Vigilante, in which they flew to an altitude of 91,450.8 feet (About 17 miles) over Edward Air Force Base on December 13, 1960. The record pending before the Federation Aeronautique Internationale, this altitude beats the previously recognized record of 67,096 feet set July 13, 1959 by a Russian Twin Jet RV Monoplane. Commander Heath was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross by Secretary of the Navy William B. Franke in Pentagon ceremonies today. Bombardier Navigator, Lieutenant Monroe received the air metal. ---- Added Note: This new record held for 13 years. |
| U.S. Navy F4H Phantom -- Record Flight Photo: 8 x 10 on fiber based paper in excellent condition with Blue Navy detailed text on reverse.. USN Photo ID: 710960 Description: Reverse text reads: 8-30-61 --- LOWEST ALTITUIDE --- HIGHEST SPEED. The Navy's F4H "Phantom" burned up the desert Sagebrush in a record claiming low altitude speed flight August 29, 1961. LT. Huntington Hardisty, the Pilot, and LT. E.H. De Esch, The Radar intercept officer, flew the Phantom at a speed of 902.769 mile per hour, over three kilometers (1.8 miles) straightaway course for the record. The team of LT. Hardisty and LT. De Esch had to fly the F4H two times in each direction at an altitude (including turns) not exceeding 328 feet over the marked course. The McDonnell built F4H Phantom is shown here in one of the record making runs at less than 50 feet from his grounded shadow. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American X-15 (a/c 66670), USAF Photo ID: 61-360-13 Photo: Excellent 8.5 x 11 vintage original photo on a fiber based paper with blue US Air Force text on reverse. USAF Official Photo released by Air Force Flight Test Center, Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. Description: Text on reverse reads: Air Force's X-15 space-probing rocket research aircraft lands at the Air Force Flight Test Center, Edwards AFB, Calif. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American X-15 (a/c 66670), USAF Photo ID: 61-277-12 Photo: Excellent 8.5 x 11 vintage original photo on a fiber based paper with blue US Air Force text on reverse. USAF Official Photo released by Air Force Flight Test Center, Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. Description: Text on reverse reads: Air Force's X-15 rocket research aircraft rests on Rogers Dry Lake at the Air Force Flight Test Center after a flight. The 57,000 lb thrust rockets engine has pushed the X-15 at altitudes exceeding 66 miles and to speed over six times the speed of sound. |
| US Air Force XB-70A (a/c 20001) - Vintage Original B&W Photo Description: USAF text on reverse reads: The XB-70A research aircraft taxis toward Edwards AFB's 15,000 foot runway for another in a series of test flights programmed to fly it higher and faster eacg flight toward a goal of 70,000 feet and 2,000 mph. Photo: Excellent 8.5 x 11 vintage original photo on a fiber based paper with blue US Air Force text on reverse. USAF Official Photo released by Air Force Flight Test Center, Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. |
| U.S. Air Force - McDonnell YRF-110A Spectre (a/c 612200) Photo (left): Vintage McDonnell Aircraft Corporation photo. 8 x 10 in excellent condition on a fiber based paper with repeating "A KODAK PAPER" watermarks on reverse along with McDonnell stamp and Photo ID: D4C 14718. Date stamp AUG 8 1963 Photo (right): Vintage black & White photo with McDonnell Aircraft Corporation stamp on reverse with photo ID 2D4 26990. On fiber based paper. Description: Later redesignated RF-4C-14-MC Phantom. Was originally a US Navy F-4B modified as prototype for USAF photo recon version. In 1965, this aircraft was modified as an aerodynamic prototype for the F-4E. Later modified as test bed with canard surface and special controls. Donated to WPAFB Museum. |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XA3D-1 Skywarrior (a/c 125412) Description: This aircraft (a/c 125412) was diverted to ground training, Memphis TN. A-3 BuNo 125412 first flew on Oct. 28, 1952 at Edwards AFB, Ca. The first XA3D-1 (BuNo 125412) was carried by truck out to Edwards AFB. Initially, the the twin 20-mm cannon were not actually installed in the tail turret. Some problems were encountered with flutter, but the most serious problems were with the J40 turbojet. At that time, the J40 engine was encountering severe reliability problems on many of the other aircraft that had been designed for its use. These problems ultimately proved to be insoluble, leading to the cancellation of the entire J40 program. Since the A3D would have proved to be seriously underpowered with the J40 in any case, Douglas proposed that the J40 be replaced by the Pratt & Whitney J57 turbojet. This proposal was accepted by the Navy, and the two prototypes were later fitted with J57-P-1 turbojets. Photo: Vintage original 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with Douglas Aircraft Corporation stamp on reverse. |
| U.S. Army Air Forces - North American XP-86 Sabre (a/c559597) Photo: 8 x 10 vintage B/W glossy in good condition on a fiber based paper. Description: There is a possibility that 45-59597 flown by George Welch may have been the first aircraft to exceed the speed of sound. Before Chuck Yeager exceeded the speed of sound on October 14, 1947, the XP-86 may well have exceeded the speed of sound in a couple of high speed dives. |
| U.S. Navy - North American YA3J-1 Vigilante Description: As YA3J-1, engine upgrade, minor changes. Redesignated as A-5A in 1962. I believe photo was taken during sea trail on the USS SARATOGA (CVA-60). Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition with North American Aviation stamp on reverse on a fiber based paper. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American YF-100A (a/c 25754) Photo: The photo is in excellent condition on nice fiber based paper with Air Force Photo, Wright-Patterson AFB stamp on reverse. |
| U.S. Navy - Vought YA-7A-1 Corsair Landing (ac 152580) Vintage 8 x 10 Photo. Records show model as Ling-Temco-Vought YA-7A-1-CV Corsair II. Aircraft crashed at NAS China Lake Mar 23, 1966. |
| U.S. Navy - McDonnell YF4H-1 PHANTOM (a/c 142259) Photo: Vintage 8 x 10 in excellent condition on Fiber based paper with McDonnell Aircraft Corporation stamp on review. Photo ID: D4E 156287 Description: Actual photo much better then scan. Good action photo of the gear just closing in the wells. |
| US Air Force, Ryan X-13-RY Vertijet (a/c 41620) Photo: 8 x 10 in excellent condition on fiber based paper with Ryan X-13 Vertijet stamp on reverse. Description: A/C 41620 on display at Wright-Patterson AFB. |
| U.S. Navy - Douglas XF4D-1 SKYRAY (a/c 124587) Photo: 8 x 10 in good condition with Douglas Aircraft Company stamp on reverse. |
| U.S. Air Force - North American YF-100A (a/c 25754) Photo: The photo is in excellent condition on nice fiber based paper with a "NORTH AMERICAN AVIATION, YF-100 SUPER SABRE" stamp on reverse. |
| U.S. Air Force, Fairchild XC-120 Pack Plane (a/c 48-330) Photo: Vintage original 8 x 10 in good condition on fiber based paper with Fairchild Aircraft stamp on reverse with attached descriptive text. Description: This aircraft was originally a Fairchild C-119B Flying Boxcar that was converted to the XC-120 Pack Plane. Text on reverse reads: With its cargo-carrying fuselage detached, the Fairchild XC-120's cockpit towers high above the ground, permitting easy clearance for maintenance and servicing work to be carried out beneath. Only one XC-120 was built. Though the aircraft was tested extensively and made numerous airshow appearances in the early 1950s the project went no farther. The sole prototype was eventually scrapped. |