MACW Flight Test

FlexSys flight tested the MACW in October 2006. A 30 x 50 inch test section, composed of a Lockheed Martin Natural Laminar Flow leading edge with a FlexSys-designed compliant trailing edge, was fully instrumented with pressure sensors, hot films, accelerometers, temperature sensors, air data boom, and wake rake. The test article was mounted to the underbelly of the White Knight, a unique jet aircraft designed and operated by Scaled Composites and best known as the aircraft that launched SpaceShipOne into space in 2004. Aerodynamic data was collected for various flap deflections and angles of attack at 25,000 and 40,000 feet and speeds up to Mach 0.55. Results are forthcoming.

Video

This video shows the White Knight during take-off and in flight with the MACW attached. (4.0MB .wmv movie)

Photos

All Photos Copyright 2006 by FlexSys, Inc. Please contact FlexSys for permission to use the photos on this site.

The White Knight with the MACW attached preparing for flight.	FlexSys engineers preparing the MACW for flight.
The White Knight in flight, as seen from the chase plane.	The White Knight in flight, as seen from the tail camera.
Returning from a successful data-collection mission.	The White Knight and the MACW.
The MACW.	Frost on the wing after a 40,000 ft flight.
Another shot of the MACW.	The FlexSys, AFRL, and Scaled Composites teams