Lockheed NF-104A

sketchfab

The United States developed and flew a hybrid aircraft, combining elements of both fixed-wing planes and vertical takeoff and landing jets. This innovative machine was designed to provide astronauts with an affordable and high-performance experience in space exploration training. Built specifically for use by NASA's pilots-in-training, it offered unparalleled agility and responsiveness at speeds exceeding 4,000 miles per hour, making it a highly sought-after asset in the astronaut corps.