Pilot Jim Smolka recalls highlights of NASA's NF-15B research career after its final flight.

This 62 second movie clip shows pilot Jim Smolka recalling highlights of NASA's NF-15B research career after its final flight.

Flight research carried out by NASA with a highly modified F-15 aircraft demonstrated and evaluated advanced integrated flight and propulsion control system technologies that will help make next-generation aircraft more maneuverable, more fuel efficient, and safer to fly.

The NASA F-15 was the first aircraft to demonstrate a fully integrated inlet-engine-flight control system, a self-repairing flight control system, and a propulsion-only flight control system.

The F-15 was designed as twin-engine air superiority fighter by McDonnell Aircraft Co., McDonnell Douglas Corporation, St. Louis, Missouri. The F-15 is normally powered by two Pratt and Whitney F100-PW-100 or 220 engines, depending on the model. The NASA F-15 was equipped with advanced versions of the F100 -- F100 EMD (engine model derivative).

The aircraft was capable of flying more than twice the speed of sound. The F-15 is 63.75 feet long and has a wingspan of 42.83 feet. The NASA F-15 was extensively modified for research activities and did not carry any armament.

   Last Modified: January 23, 2009
   Responsible NASA Official: Marty Curry
   Curator: PAO Webmasters
   NASA Website Privacy Statement