Related Studies
Wind tunnel testing continues at several sites to test a modified shape
that provides more internal volume for the same size spacecraft. The flight
control system is undergoing final testing on the Air Force's variable
stability F-16 (VISTA) prior to V132 flight. Finally, development of an
improved-performance parafoil as been started with subscale testing. If
successful, this parafoil will be integrated into V201 before it flies in
space.
Much of the technology for the X-38 has been developed from previous programs.
Indeed, the X-38 program will rely heavily on past and existing programs to
minimize the cost of developing new technologies. These facets include:
Re-entry data (heating and aerodynamics) from the X-23 Prime project for
hypersonic and supersonic flight regimes.
Low supersonic, transonic, and subsonic performance and aerodynamics from
the X-24A lifting body project.
Preliminary parachute guidance and control technology from the DFRC Space
Wedge project.
Final parachute guidance and control technology from the GPADS (developed
by Pioneer under contract to the US Army).
The flight termination system for the project is the same as that developed
for many other DFRC unmanned aerial vehicles. (XCRV-003 "Flight Termination
System" dated April 1996)
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