Phase 3 - Two full scale, approximate X-24A shaped vehicles to be launched from the DFRC B-52 on the Edwards Air Force Base test range. One of the vehicles will have fixed control surfaces; the second aircraft will have both an autonomous free-flight control system with movable aerodynamic surfaces, and parachute controls.
Demonstrate deployment, autonomous flight, and landing flare capability of a parafoil/payload system with a wing loading of 2.0 pounds per square foot.
Assess the aerodynamics and stability and control of the free-flight vehicle.
Evaluate the initial control laws and mechanization for stability and control and energy management.
Evaluate the touchdown dynamics of the full-scale vehicle/parachute combination.
Measure stability and control of the full-scale vehicle/parachute combination.
Demonstrate integration and operation (including guidance) of the Guided Precision Aerial Delivery System (GPADS) parachute recovery system.
Continue assessment of parachute system reliability.
Expand the parachute deployment envelope.
