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X-34 Model Makes First Captive Test Flight
Washington - July 1, 1999 - NASA made its first test flight of the X-34 test model, a prototype of a robotic spacecraft that will test new technologies and methods of operations needed to develop low-cost reusable space vehicles. The first of several captive carry flights between the X-34 technology testbed demonstrator and its L-1011 carrier aircraft was conducted today from NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards CA. The purpose of this test was to verify the safety of the combined vehicles for FAA certification purposes because of modifications to the L-1011 carrier vehicle. Takeoff took place at 1:12 p.m. EDT, with landing at 3:02 EDT. Initial data indicates that no major problems occurred in the 1 hour, 50 minute flight, although additional flights will be required to examine the entire flight profile for X-34 and its carrier before subsequent air-launched and unpowered approach and landing flights later in the year. Several planned test objectives were accomplished during the flight. Performance of the aircraft was evaluated during several scheduled maneuvers at various speeds and altitudes. The L-1011 crew conducted a simulated rocket engine propellant release from the X-34 using fluorescent dye. The flight also was used to check the electronic connections between the mated aircraft, data collection systems and the video camera system on the L-1011. The planned 2.5-hour test was shortened after a safety observer aboard a NASA F-18 chase plane accompanying the flight noticed that a fuselage panel on the L-1011 appeared to be vibrating. The panel was located on the bottom, aft fuselage of the carrier aircraft behind the X-34. Based on video from the chase plane, test officials decided to end the flight. No further details were available pending a close inspection of the aircraft and extensive flight test data.
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