Attractive composite model of the Russian Kholod hypersonic rocket, standing 16˝ in height, and featuring four solid rocket boosters, stabilizing fins, and its unique nosecone. Presented on a wooden 5.5˝ diameter base. In fine condition. Accompanied by an original embroidered CIAM/NASA patch for the Kholod program and three color 11.75 x 16.5 color posters of an artist's rendition of the craft in a laboratory.
The Kholod hypersonic rocket was equipped with a scramjet engine and created to exceed Mach 6+. The Kholod became part of a joint CIAM/NASA project to enhance the fundamental understanding of variable geometry ram/scramjet hybrids beginning in the 1990s. The partnership aimed to test the Kholod's scramjet at Mach 6.5 while recording all relevant test data both onboard and via telemetry. The information obtained by the Hypersonic Flying Laboratory enabled researchers to begin designing the next generation of ramjets and scramjets. The success of the Kholod program led to the development of NASA's X-43 to further refine the mechanics of scramjets and to develop control surfaces to enable maneuverability at hypersonic speeds.
