The iffy 'Orient Express' [hypersonic transport]

The X-30, a proposed hypersonic transport that could fly at up to 25 times the speed of sound, is discussed. Two current US programs are described: a joint US Department of Defense/NASA program for a national aerospace plane (NASP), and research into high-speed commercial flight by NASA. The technological requirements of such a vehicle are examined, and the issues raised by the high cost of its development are examined. The question of schedules is discussed. Related research in the UK, West Germany, and Japan is noted.<
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