Accession Number:

AD0805804

Title:

X-7 RAMJET TEST VEHICLE.

Descriptive Note:

Progress rept. no. 37, Apr-Jun 55.

Corporate Author:

LOCKHEED AIRCRAFT CORP VAN NUYS CA

Personal Author(s):

Report Date:

1955-07-01

Pagination or Media Count:

92.0

Abstract:

The X-7A Project required the development of a flying test bed for any of several ramjet engines capable of self-sustained flight between Mach numbers 1.7 and 3.0, and altitudes from sea level to 80,000 feet. The vehicle is air-launched, boosted to flight speed, and recovered by means of parachutes and a ground penetration spike. Preliminary design studies, begun in July 1947, culminated in a vehicle configuration which embodies a tapered straight wing and conventional tail surface arrangement, and provides a readily interchangeable installation for any of several ramjet engines. Wind-tunnel investigations, model tests, and 13-scale model boosted free flight tests were conducted in the process of development. Production of full-scale vehicles and boosters was begun in early 1950. Full-scale flight tests were begun in 1951 and thirty-six boosted flights including three with boost test vehicles have been completed in this program.

Descriptors:

• (*RAMJET TEST VEHICLES
• FLIGHT TESTING)
• RAMJET ENGINES
• AERODYNAMIC CONFIGURATIONS
• SCHEDULING
• PERFORMANCE(ENGINEERING)
• AUTOMATIC PILOTS
• SUPERSONIC FLIGHT
• TRANSONIC FLIGHT
• ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
• LAUNCHING
• DROGUE PARACHUTES
• PARACHUTE DESCENTS
• SPIKES
• RECOVERY

Subject Categories:

• Gliders and Parachutes

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE