Twelve pilots were chosen for the X-15 rocket-powered aircraft test program: five from NASA, five from the Air Force, one from the Navy, and one from manufacturer North American Aviation. North American (and former NASA) test pilot Scott Crossfield made the first unpowered flight on June 8, 1959; William Dana piloted the final flight on October 24, 1968. In the course of the program, the X-15 set an unofficial world speed record of 4,520 mph (Mach 6.7) in a flight by Air Force pilot Pete Knight on October 3, 1967. The altitude record (354,200 feet) was set by NASA pilot Joseph Walker on August 22, 1963. Satin-finish 10 x 8 photo of an X-15 in the air, signed in blue and black felt tip by William Knight (1929–2004), Milt Thompson (b. 1926), Bob White (b. 1924), Neil Armstrong (b. 1930), Bill Dana (b. 1930), and Scott Crossfield (1921–2006). In very fine condition. A desirable grouping which is getting harder to find. Pre-certified Scott Cornish and RRAuction COA.
This item is Pre-Certified by STEVE ZARELLI
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for
(inquire for price)
*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.