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NASA shoots for new hypersonic record
LOS ANGELES, California (AP) -- In March, NASA launched an experimental jet that reached a record-setting speed of about 5,000 mph (8,050 kph). Now researchers want to leave that milestone in the dust.NASA's third and last X-43A "scramjet" was set to streak over the Pacific Ocean on Monday at 7,000 mph (11,260 kph) for 10 or 11 seconds -- or 10 times the speed of sound. The Pegasus rocket will ignite and carry the X-43A to an altitude of 110,000 feet (33,528 meters) and a speed of about Mach 10, then release it for its brief powered flight. The X-43A will then become a glider and perform maneuvers until it splashes down into the ocean. Scramjet technology may be used in developing hypersonic missiles and airplanes or reusable space launch vehicles, with a potential for offering speeds of at least Mach 15. Unlike rockets, scramjets wouldn't have to carry heavy oxidizer necessary to allow fuel to burn because they can scoop oxygen out of the atmosphere. Posted by: Mark Espinola 2004-11-15 |
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