NASA, Boeing and the U.S. Air Force are teaming up to develop a Blended-Wing Body aircraft for the military, called X-48B.
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| X-48B |
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| X-48B |
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| X-48B |
Unique Lines
The X-48B lacks the traditional tube and wing shape which has been the hallmark of aircraft design for the last 100 years.
Into the Future
Researchers believe that the unique design of the X-48B will save 30 percent more fuel over contemporary aircraft of similar size and weight. It could see service some time in the next ten to fifteen years.
Test Flight
The X-48B soars over Edwards Air Force Base in August. During the test, the plane was piloted remotely by engineers on the ground.
The X-48B lacks the traditional tube and wing shape which has been the hallmark of aircraft design for the last 100 years.
Into the Future
Researchers believe that the unique design of the X-48B will save 30 percent more fuel over contemporary aircraft of similar size and weight. It could see service some time in the next ten to fifteen years.
Test Flight
The X-48B soars over Edwards Air Force Base in August. During the test, the plane was piloted remotely by engineers on the ground.
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| X-48B |
Wind Tunnel
At NASA's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, an 8.5 percent scale model of the X-48B is tested for its stability and control. The wingspan of this prototype of the aircraft measures 21 feet.
At NASA's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, an 8.5 percent scale model of the X-48B is tested for its stability and control. The wingspan of this prototype of the aircraft measures 21 feet.
