The X-15 Experimental Aircraft was developed with the specific goal of reaching between Mach 4 and Mach 10 with a pilot aboard. Covered with a special chrome-nickel alloy skin to help withstand the expected 1,200+ degree surface temperatures created while traveling at that speed, the X-15 went on its first powered flight in 1959. It was powered by a XLR99 rocket engine creating 57,000 pounds of thrust and continued flying until 1968 completing 199 flights over three aircraft and establishing many records. Scheduled to be released in May '06.

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