Boeing NB-52B Stratofortress, 52-0008 / 16498, NASA
This picture is © Martin Laycock and may not be used or published without permission.
Registration: 52-0008
Construction Number: 16498
Code Number: 008
Military Unit: AMES-Dryden Flight Research Facility
Model Boeing NB-52B Stratofortress
Operator: NASA
Airport: Edwards AFB (EDW / KEDW), USA - California
Photographer: Martin Laycock
Date Taken: 07/05/1993
Date Submitted: 17/01/2009
Photographed on the ramp at the Hugh L. Dryden Flight Research Facility. The eighth B-52 off the production line, it was one of two aircraft modified to launch the X-15. During a distinguished career it also launched NASA's wingless lifting bodies, several Remotely Piloted Vehicles, test dropped the Space Shuttle's Solid Rocket Boosters to test recovery techniques and was used to launch the Pegasus Booster. Never officially a NASA aircraft, she remained the property of the USAF until retirement on 17 December 2004. Although it was the oldest flying B-52 at retirement, it had the lowest number of flying hours (2443.8 hrs.), only being used for experimental or test flights. She is now displayed outside the north gate of Edwards Air Force Base, just off Highway 58 between Mojave and Boron.
Picture ID:1153402