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 14 x 11 limited-edition signed photo of an X-15 on the tarmac, signed in black felt tip by Armstrong and six other X-15 pilots. This item is one of the very special limited-edition photographs that Neil Armstrong signed for the Edwards A. F. B. Flight-Test Historical Society. Signers are: 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). In very fine condition. Pre-certified Scott Cornish and RRAuction COA.
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