apr 16, 1963 - X-20 Test Flight
Description:
The X-20, dubbed the Stratos, becomes the centerpiece of an Air Force–NASA joint orbital reconnaissance and response platform. It flies unmanned suborbitally, launched on an early Titan II rocket as a maneuverable orbital test vehicle. Adapted to perform orbital rendezvous, docking, and surveillance relay, but Stratos becomes a testbed for winged reentry and precision landing—ideal for quick-turnaround, reusable military flights. Issues in heat shielding are immediately identifiedAdded to timeline:
Date:
apr 16, 1963
Now
~ 62 years ago