X-15 OPERATIONS FLIGHT REPORT

FLIGHT NO: 3-28-47 DATE OF REPORT: May 19, 1964

PILOT: John B. McKay DATE OF FLIGHT: May 12, 1964

CARRIER AIRCRAFT: B-52 #003 LAUNCH LAKE: Hidden Hills

PURPOSE OF FLIGHT: Heat Transfer and Skin Friction Experiments

I. Discussion of Previous Operations

A. Difficulty in extending speed brakes during heating flights is still a continuing problem. During flight 3-27-44 and as noted in this report (see paragraph V B), the maximum extension obtained during the high heat portion was 30 rather than 35 degrees. This lower maximum extension position results in an energy management problem on this type of flight.

B. Faulty operation of the Sperry system is a continuing problem. It is hoped that the improved Sperry system, if installed in X-15-3 would alleviate problems in obtaining a flight worthy system.

II. Aircraft Configuration Changes (all made after 3-2-45) A. The seat de-arming hose cutter was installed to facilitate emergency entrance to the cockpit. The lever is located on the RH side just aft of the canopy.

B. Installed .008 Inconel tabs over the expansion slots in the leading edge rudder.

C. Replaced APU 16AN with 26AN. APU 26AN has a new seal configuration and will undergo flight evaluation of seal performance.

D. Cabin was resealed during repair of canted bulkhead, leakage after resealing measured 63.7 cfm at 3-1/2 psi.

III. Instrumentation Configuration Changes A. Removed forward RH rake to prepare for installation of rake on bottom nose BCS compartment for future flights.

B. Installed wiring for lower ventral BLN tests (stowed ends in engine compartment pending reinstallation of lower ventral hardware). Replaced existing BLN panel wiring with shielded four conductor.

(Remainder of report is missing)

Approved By: Prepared by:

Perry V. Row John G. McTigue

X-15 Senior Project Engineer X-15 Project Engineer