Object Details
Manufacturer
N.A.C.A. Langley Aeronautics Laboratory
Summary
This is the F-23 research rocket used during 1950-1954 by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics at its research facility at Wallops Island, Virginia, to test ramjet engines under actual flight conditions.
Each of the ramjet pods produced a thrust of 1,000 pounds (450 kg), using acetylene and rammed-in air. Supersonic speeds were obtained at altitudes up to 159,000 feet (48,460 m). The F-23 also made important contributions in testing various ramjet fuels. This object was donated in 1979 to the Smithsonian by NASA.
Alternate Name
F-23 Ramjet Research Vehicle
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA)
Inventory Number
A19790240000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
PROPULSION-Miscellaneous
Materials
Overall, aluminum; steel ramjet pod shrouds; steel flush screws
Dimensions
Overall: 18 ft. 3 in. tall x 7 1/2 in. diameter x 1 ft. 11 1/4 in. wing span, 246 lb. (556.26 x 19.05 x 59.06cm, 111.6kg)
Other (each ramjet pod): 4 ft. 2 in. long x 6 1/2 in. diameter (127 x 16.51cm)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Location
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA
Exhibit Station
Rockets & Missiles
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19790240000