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 on the tarmac, signed vertically in black felt tip by William Knight (1929–2004), Milt Thompson (b.1926), Bob White (b. 1924), Neil Armstrong (b.1930), Joe Engle (b.1932), Bill Dana (b.1930), and Scott Crossfield (1921–2006). Photo comes with a Department of the Navy presentation folder. In very fine condition. Pre-certified Scott Cornish and RRAuction COA.
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