Скачать или смотреть Flight Without Wings - 1968, NASA

“Flight Without Wings” is a NASA documentary released in 1968 that explores the innovative research and development of lifting body aircraft. These aircraft were designed to generate lift without traditional wings, a concept that played a crucial role in the evolution of spaceflight technology, particularly for the Space Shuttle program.

Introduction to Lifting Bodies:
The documentary begins by explaining the concept of lifting bodies, which are aircraft that derive lift from their fuselage shape rather than wings.
It highlights the importance of this research for future space missions, particularly for safe re-entry and landing.
Development and Testing:
The film covers the early development of lifting body aircraft in the 1960s, focusing on the work done at NASA’s Dryden Flight Research Center (now Armstrong Flight Research Center) and Edwards Air Force Base.
It showcases several experimental designs, including the M2-F1, HL-10, and M2-F2, detailing their unique features and intended purposes.
Test Flights and Pilots:
Viewers are taken through the rigorous testing process, including both unmanned and manned flights.
The documentary features footage of test pilots like Bruce Peterson and Milton Thompson, who were instrumental in piloting these experimental vehicles.
It also includes dramatic moments from test flights, such as the famous crash of the M2-F2, which was later depicted in the opening sequence of the TV show “The Six Million Dollar Man.”
Technological Innovations:
The documentary highlights the technological advancements that emerged from the lifting body program, such as improvements in aerodynamics, materials science, and flight control systems.
It discusses the challenges faced during development and testing, including crashes and other setbacks, and how these were overcome.
Impact on Space Exploration:
“Flight Without Wings” emphasizes the long-term impact of lifting body research on space exploration.
The concepts and technologies developed during this program were instrumental in the design of the Space Shuttle, which utilized a similar approach for re-entry and landing.
Visual and Educational Appeal:
The documentary is rich with archival footage, including test flights, pilot interviews, and behind-the-scenes looks at the engineering and testing processes.
It serves as both an educational resource and a historical record of a critical period in aerospace research.