[MAJOR KIT MURRAY PILOTS X-1A TO RECORD ALTITUDE JUNE 4, 1954]
Sign in to track this film in your collection or want list.
Year Published: 1953
Description: The short film depicts the Bell X-1A rocket plane at Edwards Air Force Base on June 4, 1954. Major Arthur W. “Kit” Murray piloted the experimental aircraft to an altitude of 89,810 feet, witnessing the darkened sky and Earth's curvature, earning him the title of “America’s first space pilot.” The X-1A reached Mach 1.97 but experienced inertial coupling instability, similar to Chuck Yeager's experience in November 1953, causing it to tumble and lose over 20,000 feet before Murray regained control. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for this achievement. **Keywords:** Bell X-1A, Edwards Air Force Base, June 4, 1954, Major Arthur W. “Kit” Murray, altitude, 89,810 feet, curvature of the Earth, America’s first space pilot, Mach 1.97, inertial coupling instability, Distinguished Flying Cross.
Complete Record: The short film depicts the Bell X-1A rocket plane at Edwards Air Force Base on June 4, 1954. Major Arthur W. “Kit” Murray piloted the experimental aircraft to an altitude of 89,810 feet, witnessing the darkened sky and Earth's curvature, earning him the title of “America’s first space pilot.” The X-1A reached Mach 1.97 but experienced inertial coupling instability, similar to Chuck Yeager's experience in November 1953, causing it to tumble and lose over 20,000 feet before Murray regained control. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for this achievement.
**Keywords:** Bell X-1A, Edwards Air Force Base, June 4, 1954, Major Arthur W. “Kit” Murray, altitude, 89,810 feet, curvature of the Earth, America’s first space pilot, Mach 1.97, inertial coupling instability, Distinguished Flying Cross.