AIR FORCE X-51

AIR FORCE X-51

Summary of program

X-51: Aircraft designed to jump from the upper atmosphere into space.

Engine: The forward motion of the engine is used by scramjets to compress air for fuel combustion. The engines are made of a nickel alloy and are cooled during flight by their own fuel.

Uses: Officials expect the aircraft will be used to deploy satellites and for reconnaissance or strike missions.

Program: The X-51 program features a $210 million contract with industry partners. The program is managed at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, but much of the work is being done in California and Florida.

Source: U.S. Air Force