X-38 research aircraft - second drop flight from a B-52

[kirkmach32]

I was part of this test team. It should have been approved and it should be docked with the station right now. Oh well.

[ejicon]

So I know this program/vehicle was scrapped back in 2001 or so... but what does the crew use now as a CRV?

[kirkmach32]

There is no "CRV" per se. Crew rescue planned for the ISS was based on a dual approach with the Soyuz (docked) and the X-38 CRV, which should have been put into service. Now there is only Soyuz genre spacecraft to rely upon for emergency return to Earth.

[ejicon]

Ouch... that's kinda scary. Thanks for the info.

[TS7019]

Agreed. Why the parafoil approach and not a glider landing for the CRV? Looking at the design, it could have had multiple roles/configurations for crew/payload to orbit and return.

[heliosium]

It was too good the simulation when they throw the x38 from the international station . Here we could see how it spin, and how it really crash the nose unto the ground (poor crew members) Why don't they just land as an airplane ? Small wings ? Could be retractil wings , better ? And obviously, not as in the toon, the parapente goes first when landing - that produce the diving effect on the ship.

[kirkmach32]

This vehicle featured automated "pilotless" re-entry, and GPS-guided self-control of the parachute--an on-board computer would monitor global position and conditions and control re-entry and effect steering, dive, and flare while using the parachute. The software and 'chute actuator technology was brand-new, still in development by the time the vehicle finally flew. Understand the concept of an "X" craft, fly and develop is the way it is done. NASA ran out of money and time and got canceled.

[djschrum]

seems like a weird way to come back. Might as well just have a capsule.

[kirkmach32]

The concept here, simply put, was to produce a >shirtsleeves" environment within the vehicle--no pressure suits required--and no pilot required. In essence, a group of people could climb inside, secure the hatch, strap themselves in (or even float free in a rapid emergency egress), "push a button" and the vehicle would automatically detach, re-enter and fly itself to a safe landing to any programmed site. The vehicle was watertight and could also function as a lifeboat as needed.