X-15

The X-15 was an experimental rocket plane developed by NASA and the U.S. Air Force in the 1960s to explore high-speed and high-altitude flight. It was designed to push the boundaries of aviation, reaching speeds over Mach 6 (six times the speed of sound) and altitudes above 50 miles. These advancements helped scientists understand hypersonic flight, develop re-entry techniques, and gather data for future space missions. The X-15 was launched from a mothership aircraft and flown by specially trained pilots, providing valuable insights that contributed to the development of space vehicles and high-performance aircraft.