In this historical photo from the U.S. space agency, a one-twentieth scale model of the X-15, originally suspended beneath the wing of a B-52, is observed by a scientist as it leaves the bomber model in tests to determine the release characteristics …

In this historical photo from the U.S. space agency, an engine mechanic checks instrumentation prior to an investigation of engine operating characteristics and thrust control of a large turboprop engine with counter-rotating propellers under high …

See more photos of this, and the Wikipedia article. Details, quoting from Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum | Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird: No reconnaissance aircraft in history has operated globally in more hostile airspace or with such complete impunity than the SR-71, the world’s fastest jet-propelled aircraft. The Blackbird’s performance and operational achievements placed it [...]

In this historical photo from the U.S. space agency, backdropped against white clouds and blue ocean waters, the International Space Station (ISS) moves away from the Space Shuttle Discovery on June 3, 1999. The U.S.- built Unity node (top) and the …

In this historical photo from the U.S. space agency, the second try works like a charm as the Space Shuttle Discovery lifts off from Launch Pad 39B on Mission STS-56 at 1:29:00 a.m., EDT, Apr. 8, 1993. The first attempt to launch Discovery on its 16th …

The space shuttle Discovery linked up with the international space station, and the 10 space travelers immediately got ready to install the Japanese lab Kibo. Bo Diddley, 79, a founding father of rock 'n' roll, died in Archer, Fla., at age 79. Actor …