Configuration development study of the X-24C hypersonic research airplane, phase 1

Four hypersonic research airplane configurations found to be the most cost effective were selected for further refinement. The selection was based on a systematic analysis and evaluation of realistic designs, involving nine different configurations, evolving from three different structural/thermal concepts, coupled with existing rocket and sustainer engines. All configurations were constrained by the mission profiles, research requirements, aerodynamic envelope and maximum launch weight established by NASA.