Founded in 1982 by Burt Rutan, Scaled has broad experience in air vehicle design, tooling and manufacturing, specialty composite structure design, analysis and fabrication, and developmental flight tests of air and space vehicles.
Founder/Chairman Emeritus
Special Projects
Model 97 is a two-place, side-by-side airplane of the 300 lb empty weight class. It has a slightly swept-back canard forward and swept back wings with winglets at the tips.
A subscale version of an eleven-place, twin turboprop, high-performance business aircraft developed for Beech Aircraft Corporation.
The Model 133-4.62 ATTT proof-of-concept demonstrator is a 62% scaled version of an airplane designed to challenging STOL and long range requirements.
The all-composite Triumph, an 8,500 lb, pressurized 8-place business aircraft, was designed around the brand-new, never flown, Williams FJ-44 turbofan engine.
Scaled did the structural design, tooling, fabrication, and static testing of an 85 ft span and a 108 ft span rigid sail/airfoil for the America’s Cup Challenge Race.
The ARES, Scaled Model 151, was designed initially in response to a U.S. Army request for a Low Cost Battlefield Attack Aircraft (LCBAA).
The Advanced Engineering Staff of General Motors designed a technology demonstration vehicle called the Ultralite, an automobile with interior room capable of seating four full size adults, and with excellent visibility, handling, performance, emissions and fuel consumption.
The Raptor Demonstrator high-altitude, long endurance, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) program was conducted under a contract from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory to Scaled Composites, LLC.
In early 1993, Jim Rice and Tom Stark of the fledgling VisionAire Corporation visited Scaled with conceptual designs for a new single-engine business jet.
Walled Lake, Michigan, June 23, 1997 -- Williams International today announced that its all-composite, turbofan- powered "V-JET II" light aircraft is on schedule for its July 31 fly-in and follow-on demonstration flights and exhibition at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) convention at Oshkosh, July 30 to August 5, 1997.
Proteus is a twin-turbofan, high-altitude, multi-mission aircraft powered by Williams International FJ44-2E engines.
The Model 309 is a proof-of-concept aircraft built for Adam Aircraft Industries.
The GlobalFlyer is a single seat, turbofan powered airplane designed to fly around the world nonstop, unrefueled, with a solo pilot.
SpaceShipOne, the first private manned spacecraft, is a three-place, high-altitude research rocket.
White Knight is a three-place, high-altitude, flexible and capable research aircraft.
The Model 326 aircraft (or Pegasus X-47A) is an unmanned aerial vehicle built for Northrop Grumman.
SpaceShipTwo will be powered by a unique hybrid rocket motor, which is currently under development.
WhiteKnightTwo, or Eve, is the mothership and launch platform for SpaceShipTwo.
Firebird is an optionally-piloted intelligence-gathering aircraft system.
BiPod is a hybrid gasoline-electric roadable aircraft.
Stratolaunch is a mobile launch system with three primary components.
SpaceShipTwo
SpaceShipTwo is the prototype for the world's first commercial manned spaceship, destined to take private astronauts into space and paving the way for space transportation.
WhiteKnightTwo
Utilizing an open-architecture design and powered by four Pratt & Whitney turbofans, WhiteKnightTwo provides the high-altitude launch platform for SpaceShipTwo to achieve sub-orbital flight.
Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer
This record-breaking, single-place, aviation marvel features two external booms flanking a center pod where the pilot sits, on top of which is the aircraft's powerhouse, a Williams turbofan jet engine.
SpaceShipOne
SpaceShipOne, the first private manned spacecraft, is a three-place, high-altitude research rocket, designed for sub-orbital flights at an altitude of 100 km and powered by a unique hybrid rocket motor.
White Knight
Initially developed to provide a launch platform at 50,000 ft for SpaceShipOne, White Knight is a three-place, high-altitude, flexible and capable research aircraft.
WhiteKnightTwo Flight Test Summaries
The following list includes summaries of the flight test activity of the WhiteKnightTwo (WK2) aircraft. WhiteKnightTwo is the mothership aircraft for SpaceShipTwo (SS2) and potentially other large payloads. It is equipped with many common system components to SS2 (cabin, ECS, speed-brake actuators, avionics, trim servos, air data, test data, video and TM). Thus, the flight test program of WK2 includes many tests that focus on SS2 systems qualification and maturity.
Objectives:
Virgin Galactic WK2 pilot proficiency
Simulated engine out minimum control speed testing
Communication and radio navigation system performance testing
Results:
Static and dynamic Vmca test points completed at maximum continuous thrust at a build-up altitude. Long range VOR and communication performance successfully verified. ILS guidance and performance verified throughout the localizer coverage pattern.
Objectives:
Evaluate fuel ejector pump upgrade
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Evaluate horizontal tail thermal protection
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Fly a no-guidance SS2 approach
CoPilot training
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
CoPilot training
Results:
Due to out of limit winds, conducted simulated mission.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
GF crew mission practice
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
GF crew mission practice
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Virgin Galactic WK2 pilot proficiency and joint SS2 GF pilot proficiency
Fuel systems testing.
Results:
System testing complete and multiple simulated SS2 approaches flown.
Objectives:
Virgin Galactic WK2 pilot proficiency and joint SS2 GF pilot proficiency
Results:
Conducted multiple instrument approaches and touch and goes at multiple airports.
Objectives:
Pilot familiarization
Cold soak gear behavior
Fuel inlet temps
Dump valve evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Rehearsal for glide flight
Damper system bypass mode evaluation
New stabilizer controller checkout
New MFD software checkout
New DAU checkout
WK2 landing gear cold soak
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Pilot proficiency
Spoil flap evaluation
Cold soak gear extension retraction
CoPilot brake evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Pilot familiarization
Cold soak gear extension retraction
Dump valve evaluation
Results:
Primary objectives achieved. Early return due to increasing surface winds.
Objectives:
Fuel cooler testing
Cold soak gear extension retraction
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Cold soak gear extension retraction
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 systems cold soak testing
SS2 cabin environmental testing
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Spaceport America demonstration
Results:
Successful demonstration.
Objectives:
SS2 systems cold soak testing
SS2 3rd seat evaluation
Spaceport America operations and facility evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Continued engine fuel inlet cooler performance testing at additional altitudes
Flutter data repeatability at high altitude
Anti-skid operational check and data collection
Micro g parabola profile refinement and pilot proficiency
High altitude gear extension
Pilot proficiency/New pilot checkout
Results:
All objectives achieved. Better engine fuel inlet cooler performance. Three micro g parabolas executed. Excellent performance from new pilot.
Objectives:
Continued engine fuel inlet cooler performance testing at additional altitudes
Flutter data collection at high altitude
Anti-skid operational check and data collection
Micro g parabola profile refinement and pilot proficiency
SS2 pylon release mechanism test fire at low temperatures
Results:
All objectives achieved. Engine fuel inlet cooler will receive continued refinement. Anti-skid operated as expected. 6 micro g parabolas executed. SS2 pylon release mechanism functioned properly at low temperatures.
Objectives:
Landing gear functional check
Engine fuel inlet cooler performance testing
Micro g parabola investigation
Medium speed anti-skid operational check and data collection
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Engine fuel inlet cooler performance testing
Flutter susceptibility data collection
Anti-Skid operational check and data collection
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
Objectives:
Full-pedal maximum pilot effort anti-skid braking demonstration from a maximum gross weight landing.
Results:
This flight was a very successful culmination of the previous days' ground and taxi tests that verified the functionality of the anti-skid system. The system functioned as designed without any wheel lock-ups or flattened tires.
Objectives:
Continued flutter susceptibility envelope expansion
Results:
Flight terminated due to abnormal release system behavior. Post flight inspection revealed cause and confirmed the system stayed in a safe state throughout the flight.
Objectives:
Launch space ship above 50,000 feet and then perform as high chase
Results:
All objectives met.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
SS2 photo/safety chase
Results:
All objectives met.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
SS2 photo/safety chase
Results:
All objectives met.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
Objectives:
ECS evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Pilot proficiency
Photo chase
SS2 systems checkouts
Results:
Great pictures and successful systems tests.
Objectives:
Pilot proficiency
Brake energy test
Results:
9 approaches flown. All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Speed-power
Return from SFO Terminal 2 grand opening event
Results:
WK2 and SS2 returned home to Mojave Air and Space Port.
Objectives:
Rudder trim evaluation
Formation flight with Virgin America A320 over the Golden Gate bridge
SFO Terminal 2 grand opening event
Results:
The Virgin America A320 and WK2 flew in formation with photo chase over the Golden Gate bridge and performed simultaneous landings on runways 28L and 28R at SFO.
Objectives:
Gear modifications evaluation
GF05 simulated SS2 descent
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple ILS approaches flown at surrounding airports. Multiple SS2 approaches flown for proficiency.
Objectives:
Gear modifications evaluation
GF05 simulated SS2 descent
Pilot proficiency
ECS and payload bleed evaluation
INS air align evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. Gear modifications successfully tested with 15 cycles at various speeds and altitude. Multiple ILS approaches flown at surrounding airports. Multiple SS2 approaches flown for proficiency.
Objectives:
Clean release
Expand flutter envelope
Weight expansion
Pilot proficiency
Results:
Due to deteriorating weather, conducted simulated mission and systems testing.
Objectives:
Clean release
Expand flutter envelope
Weight expansion
Pilot proficiency
Results:
Due to out of limit winds, conducted simulated mission and systems testing.
Objectives:
SS2 release
Touch-and-Gos'
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Window fogging evaluation
SS2 glide flight and WK2 pilot and co-pilot landing proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Return flight from Spaceport America runway dedication event
Instrument approach currency
SS2 approach practice
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
First SS2 cross country flight
Spaceport America runway dedication event
Environmental control system high-altitude stress test
Extended flight in instrument meteorological conditions
SS2 approach replication
Results:
All objectives achieved.
Objectives:
SS2 launch mission
NM flight maneuver practice
Results:
All objectives achieved. Launched SS2 at 46,000 ft. Practiced flight maneuver routine for NM.
Objectives:
SS2 release dry run
Glide flight practice
SS2 approach simulations
Crew proficiency
ECS testing
Results:
All objectives achieved. Rehearsal SS2 mission performed. Three simulated SS2 approaches to low approaches followed by a full stop landing.
Objectives:
SS2 systems evaluation
TM performance
SS2 flutter evaluation
Pilot proficiency
SS2 approach evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. Rehearsal mission to evaluate team and systems for early glides was performed. Simulated SS2 mission was flown to low approach. WK2 systems functioned as desired to support SS2 glide mission.
Objectives:
Fixed gear performance
Simulated SS2 glide mission
Simulated SS2 approaches
Pilot T&G proficiency (normal patterns)
Pylon evaluation
Rudder repair evaluation
Lateral stability evaluation
ECS performance evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. Two SS2 approaches to low approach. Two touch-and-go approaches. One full stop. Fixes/modifications cleared for SS2 ops.
Objectives:
Dark cockpit APU start
Rudder centering test
Simulated SS2 glide mission
Simulated SS2 approaches
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All flight objectives achieved. On the fifth touch-and-go, a minor incident occurred on the runway at Mojave airport, which involved a mechanical problem with the left hand-side landing gear of WK2. The aircraft was braked to maintain centerline, meanwhile, the engines and systems were secured. No injuries were sustained.
Objectives:
APU ground and air evaluation (to include aircraft engine restarts at high altitude)
Spoil/flap envelope expansion
ECS data collection
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Ongoing WK2 system evaluations
Results:
All objectives achieved. Five SS2 approaches flown. Eight WK2 practice landings flown.
Objectives:
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Ongoing WK2 system evaluations
Results:
All objectives achieved. Nine SS2 approaches flown.
Objectives:
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Sixteen practice landings flown. Seven simulated SS2 approaches flown.
Objectives:
SS2 manned captive carry
Mated flutter evaluation
SS2 systems evaluation
SS2 mission rehearsal
Results:
Objectives achieved. Pilots in SS2 evaluated the systems and procedures for the upcoming glide flights. A simulated SS2 mission was flown from release down to low approach. Performed low approach then full stop on Runway 30.
Objectives:
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple SS2 approaches flown.
Objectives:
Payload ECS heat characterization
SS2 release dry run
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple SS2 approaches flown to touchdown.
Objectives:
SS2 approach simulations
GF01 glide card practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple SS2 approaches flown to touchdown.
Objectives:
SS2 release dry run
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple SS2 approaches flown to touchdown.
Objectives:
SS2 mission practice
ECS evaluation
Control evaluation
Low fuel evaluation
Window fog evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. Climed to 51,500 ft and the ECS performed flawlessly. Flew cross-country to descend over the Pacific to evaluate window fogging. Upon return to the desert, performed controls evaluation which showed good positive control with power loss. Performed "roller coasters" (45° climb, low g pushover followed by 30° nose low dive) to evaluate low fuel states. Touch-and-gos' were uneventful. Full stop landing on Rwy 26.
Objectives:
SS2 pressurization evaluation
SS2 electrical system evaluation
SS2 avionics performance evaluation
SS2 approaches
Post-Flight cold soaked systems testing
Results:
All objectives achieved. SS2 was pressurized and powered from the mothership in flight. Peak altitude was 51,000 ft which allowed for a long cold-soak to evaluate the robustness of the hardware. A simulated Spaceship descent/glide mission was made from altitude to high key. Several approaches followed for pilot training/proficiency.
Objectives:
New hydraulic speedbrake evaluation
Pylon on altitude envelope expansion
SS2 mission practice
Pilot qualitative evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. New hydraulically actuated speedbrakes performed as designed. Expanded envelope with pylon installed to 51,000 ft. SS2 approaches flown to RWY 30. For the first time on the program, crew landed on the shorter, narrower 26 RWY.
Objectives:
Captive taxi handling
Speed/altitude envelope expansion
Captive performance, stability and control evaluation
SS2 systems evaluation
Photo and video
Results:
All objectives achieved. Systems performed as designed. Kudos to the entire team for executing an exceptionally clean and successful first captive flight!
Objectives:
Nosegear mod evaluation
Pylon evaluation
ECS evaluation
Results:
Objectives met. Successful evaluation of launch pylon effect on aircraft performance, handling and controls. Fired pylon mechanism in flight for first time.
Objectives:
Launch pylon envelope expansion and performance effects
Landing gear door evaluation
SpaceShipTwo approach guidance evaluation
Pilot proficiency
Results:
Launch pylon and gear doors performed well. Multiple SpaceShipTwo approaches flown.
Objectives:
Spoilflap loads data
Continued ECS testing
GPS airspeed calibration
Return from Edwards Air Show
Results:
Objectives achieved. Airborne pickup and unrestricted climb departure from Edwards Open House with WK.
Objectives:
Spoilflap loads data
ECS evaluation
GPS airspeed calibration
Roll effects of angle of attack
Edwards Air Show practice
Results:
GPS airspeed cal and approaches scrubbed for time. Other objectives achieved. Demo performed on arrival to Edwards Air Force Base "Flight Test Nation" Open House/Air Show.
Objectives:
Modified spoilflap envelope expansion
Pressurization/ECS functionality with SS2 valves to 50,000 ft
Landing gear/spoilflap cold soak extension retraction
Fuel system temperature evaluation
Avionics and instrument approach checkout
Aircrew proficiency
Edwards Air Show practice
Results:
Objectives achieved.
Objectives:
Return to Mojave
Results:
Evaluated systems functionality and performance on return trip to Mojave.
Objectives:
Oshkosh demo flight
Results:
Demo flight performed.
Objectives:
Oshkosh demo flight
Results:
Demo flight performed.
Objectives:
Cross country to Oshkosh AirVenture
Results:
Evaluated systems functionality and performance on trip to Oshkosh. Arrived at KOSH and performed short demo flight.
Objectives:
Oshkosh dress rehersal
Results:
Objectives achieved. Practiced all procedures and plans in preparation for our long cross country to the Oshkosh AirVenture Convention. Practiced demo flight after simulated mission profile.
Objectives:
Evaluate new DAS build
Instrument approach practice
FAA monitored flight for pilot "Type Rating"
Results:
All objectives completed. Rating Issued.
Objectives:
Evaluate control surface mods
Evaluate pitot probe relocation
Instrument approach practice
Pilot LOA practice
Results:
All objectives completed. Peak altitude for flight 51,000 ft. Instrument approaches practiced. LOA maneuvers practiced.
Objectives:
ECS evaluation
Third seat evaluation
Performance
Landing gear envelope expansion
Results:
All objectives completed. ECS shows exceptional cabin heating and cooling capability. Third seat adequate for test engineer duties. Gear extended out to 160 KEAS. Peak altitude for flight 51,000 ft. Instrument approach and touch-and-go at Victorville.
Objectives:
Flyby at Los Cruses, NM in support of Spaceport America event
Instrument approaches
Results:
Despite mechanical issues the day before, the Scaled team was able to turn the jet around for a Saturday morning demo at Los Cruses. Several flybys and approaches were performed for spectators in support of the Spaceport America groundbreaking. Systems were evaluated on the high altitude return leg to Mojave. One simulated approach was made to runway 26 before landing on 30.
Objectives:
To evaluate performance, stability and control, and cold soak effects on first long cross country
Flyby at Spaceport America as able
Results:
En route testing above 40,000 ft was uneventful. During the descent toward the Spaceport America groundbreaking we experienced a failure of a speedbrake actuator. Based on facilities available and logistics for our ground crew, the pilots elected to make a precautionary landing at Williams Gateway airport near Phoenix. Our ground crew is on site and we hope to return to Mojave either this afternoon or tomorrow morning.
Objectives:
Weight expansion at mid cg
Further pressurization/ECS functionality checks to 51,000 ft
Speed envelope expansion
Airborne engine relights
Results:
All objectives completed. Pressurization and ECS worked as designed. Speed envelope expanded with the gear up to 370 KTAS. Peak altitudes increased to 52,400 ft. Performance, stability and handling evaluation performed at altitude. Engines were shut down and restarted per plan. Practiced instrument approaches.
Objectives:
FAA monitored flight for issuance of pilot letter of authorization
Results:
Letter of authorization issued
Objectives:
Weight expansion at mid cg
Further pressurization/ECS functionality checks to 45,000 ft
Speed envelope expansion
G envelope expansion
Airborne engine relights
| Flight Test Legend: | CC = Captive Carry GF = Glide Flight P = Powered Flight GC = Aborted Glide Flight |
| Flight: | 95 | ||||
| Date: | 5 Sep 12 | Flight Time: | 3.1 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Colmer | WK2 CoPilot: | Stucky | WK2 FTE: | Withrow |
Objectives:
Virgin Galactic WK2 pilot proficiency
Simulated engine out minimum control speed testing
Communication and radio navigation system performance testing
Results:
Static and dynamic Vmca test points completed at maximum continuous thrust at a build-up altitude. Long range VOR and communication performance successfully verified. ILS guidance and performance verified throughout the localizer coverage pattern.
| Flight: | 94 | ||||
| Date: | 22 Aug 12 | Flight Time: | 1.3 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Maisler | WK2 FTE: | Bassett |
Objectives:
Evaluate fuel ejector pump upgrade
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 93 / GF22 | ||||
| Date: | 11 Aug 12 | Flight Time: | 1.5 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | WK2 FTE: | Inks |
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 92 / GF21 | ||||
| Date: | 7 Aug 12 | Flight Time: | 1.5 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Binnie | WK2 FTE: | Reeder |
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 91 / GF20 | ||||
| Date: | 2 Aug 12 | Flight Time: | 1.6 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Mackay | WK2 FTE: | Bassett |
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Evaluate horizontal tail thermal protection
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 90 / GF19 | ||||
| Date: | 18 Jul 12 | Flight Time: | 2 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Maisler | WK2 FTE: | Seguin |
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Fly a no-guidance SS2 approach
CoPilot training
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 89 / CC16 | ||||
| Date: | 16 Jul 12 | Flight Time: | 1.7 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Maisler | WK2 FTE: | Knupp |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Nichols | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
CoPilot training
Results:
Due to out of limit winds, conducted simulated mission.
| Flight: | 88 / GF18 | ||||
| Date: | 29 Jun 12 | Flight Time: | 1.1 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Glaser |
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
GF crew mission practice
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 87 / GF17 | ||||
| Date: | 26 Jun 12 | Flight Time: | 1.8 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Mackay | WK2 FTE: | Morgan |
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
GF crew mission practice
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 86 | ||||
| Date: | 21 June 12 | Flight Time: | 2 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Colmer | WK2 FTE: | Tighe |
Objectives:
Virgin Galactic WK2 pilot proficiency and joint SS2 GF pilot proficiency
Fuel systems testing.
Results:
System testing complete and multiple simulated SS2 approaches flown.
| Flight: | 85 | ||||
| Date: | 15 Jun 12 | Flight Time: | 1.5 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Mackay | WK2 CoPilot: | Stucky | WK2 FTE: | Vannoy |
Objectives:
Virgin Galactic WK2 pilot proficiency and joint SS2 GF pilot proficiency
Results:
Conducted multiple instrument approaches and touch and goes at multiple airports.
| Flight: | 84 | ||||
| Date: | 12 Jun 12 | Flight Time: | 2.2 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Colmer | WK2 FTE: | Zeeb |
Objectives:
Pilot familiarization
Cold soak gear behavior
Fuel inlet temps
Dump valve evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 83 / CC15 | ||||
| Date: | 8 Jun 12 | Flight Time: | 2 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Mackay | WK2 FTE: | Morgan |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | ||
Objectives:
Rehearsal for glide flight
Damper system bypass mode evaluation
New stabilizer controller checkout
New MFD software checkout
New DAU checkout
WK2 landing gear cold soak
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 82 | ||||
| Date: | 2 Jun 12 | Flight Time: | 1 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | WK2 FTE: | Verderame |
Objectives:
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 81 | ||||
| Date: | 2 Jun 12 | Flight Time: | 1 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Verderame |
Objectives:
Pilot proficiency
Spoil flap evaluation
Cold soak gear extension retraction
CoPilot brake evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 80 | ||||
| Date: | 16 May 12 | Flight Time: | 0.8 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Colmer | WK2 FTE: | Inks |
Objectives:
Pilot familiarization
Cold soak gear extension retraction
Dump valve evaluation
Results:
Primary objectives achieved. Early return due to increasing surface winds.
| Flight: | 79 | ||||
| Date: | 12 Apr 12 | Flight Time: | 2.9 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Siebold | WK2 FTE: | Glaser |
Objectives:
Fuel cooler testing
Cold soak gear extension retraction
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 77-78 | ||||
| Date: | 6 Dec 11 | Flight Time: | 4.6 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Glaser |
Objectives:
Cold soak gear extension retraction
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 76 / CC14 | ||||
| Date: | 19 Oct 11 | Flight Time: | 3.2 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Mackay | WK2 FTE: | Nichols |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Binnie | SS2 FTE: | Tighe |
Objectives:
SS2 systems cold soak testing
SS2 cabin environmental testing
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 75 / CC14 | ||||
| Date: | 17 Oct 11 | Flight Time: | 0.3 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Mackay | WK2 FTE: | Nichols |
Objectives:
Spaceport America demonstration
Results:
Successful demonstration.
| Flight: | 74 / CC13 | ||||
| Date: | 16 Oct 11 | Flight Time: | 2.8 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Mackay | WK2 FTE: | Nichols |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Binnie | SS2 FTE: | Tighe |
Objectives:
SS2 systems cold soak testing
SS2 3rd seat evaluation
Spaceport America operations and facility evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 73 / GF16 | ||||
| Date: | 29 Sep 11 | Flight Time: | 1.7 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Mackay | WK2 FTE: | Knupp |
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 72 | ||||
| Date: | 31 Aug 11 | Flight Time: | 3.1 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Mackay | WK2 FTE: | Tighe |
| GS Crew: | Stucky, Glaser, Persall, Reid, Inks |
Objectives:
Continued engine fuel inlet cooler performance testing at additional altitudes
Flutter data repeatability at high altitude
Anti-skid operational check and data collection
Micro g parabola profile refinement and pilot proficiency
High altitude gear extension
Pilot proficiency/New pilot checkout
Results:
All objectives achieved. Better engine fuel inlet cooler performance. Three micro g parabolas executed. Excellent performance from new pilot.
| Flight: | 71 | ||||
| Date: | 18 Aug 11 | Flight Time: | 3.2 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Reid |
| GS Crew: | Tighe, Glaser, Persall, Siebold, Inks |
Objectives:
Continued engine fuel inlet cooler performance testing at additional altitudes
Flutter data collection at high altitude
Anti-skid operational check and data collection
Micro g parabola profile refinement and pilot proficiency
SS2 pylon release mechanism test fire at low temperatures
Results:
All objectives achieved. Engine fuel inlet cooler will receive continued refinement. Anti-skid operated as expected. 6 micro g parabolas executed. SS2 pylon release mechanism functioned properly at low temperatures.
| Flight: | 70 | ||||
| Date: | 17 Aug 11 | Flight Time: | 1.1 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Inks |
| GS Crew: | Tighe |
Objectives:
Landing gear functional check
Engine fuel inlet cooler performance testing
Micro g parabola investigation
Medium speed anti-skid operational check and data collection
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 69 | ||||
| Date: | 11 Aug 11 | Flight Time: | 2.1 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Reid |
| GS Crew: | Tighe, Glaser, Persall, Siebold, and Inks |
Objectives:
Engine fuel inlet cooler performance testing
Flutter susceptibility data collection
Anti-Skid operational check and data collection
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 68 / GF15 | ||||
| Date: | 27 Jun 11 | Flight Time: | 1.9 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | WK2 FTE: | Seguin |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Binnie | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
| Flight: | 67 / GF14 | ||||
| Date: | 23 Jun 11 | Flight Time: | 1.6 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Binnie | WK2 FTE: | Maisler |
| SS2 Pilot: | Stucky | SS2 CoPilot: | Nichols | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
| Flight: | 66 / GF13 | ||||
| Date: | 21 Jun 11 | Flight Time: | 1.5 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | WK2 FTE: | Seguin |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Nichols | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
| Flight: | 65 / GF12 | ||||
| Date: | 15 Jun 11 | Flight Time: | 1.9 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | WK2 FTE: | Persall |
| SS2 Pilot: | Stucky | SS2 CoPilot: | Nichols | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
| Flight: | 64 / GF11 | ||||
| Date: | 14 Jun 11 | Flight Time: | 1.2 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Binnie | WK2 FTE: | M. Stinemetze |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Shane | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
| Flight: | 63 | ||||
| Date: | 10 Jun 11 | Flight Time: | 0.2 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Inks |
Objectives:
Full-pedal maximum pilot effort anti-skid braking demonstration from a maximum gross weight landing.
Results:
This flight was a very successful culmination of the previous days' ground and taxi tests that verified the functionality of the anti-skid system. The system functioned as designed without any wheel lock-ups or flattened tires.
| Flight: | 62 / CC12 | ||||
| Date: | 9 Jun 11 | Flight Time: | 1.4 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Binnie | WK2 FTE: | Seguin |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Shane | ||
Objectives:
Continued flutter susceptibility envelope expansion
Results:
Flight terminated due to abnormal release system behavior. Post flight inspection revealed cause and confirmed the system stayed in a safe state throughout the flight.
| Flight: | 61 / GF10 | ||||
| Date: | 25 May 11 | Flight Time: | 1.83 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | WK2 FTE: | Reid |
| SS2 Pilot: | Stucky | SS2 CoPilot: | Binnie | ||
Objectives:
Launch space ship above 50,000 feet and then perform as high chase
Results:
All objectives met.
| Flight: | 60 / GF09 | ||||
| Date: | 19 May 11 | Flight Time: | 1.38 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Knupp | WK2 FTE: | M. Stinemetze |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Binnie | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 59 / GF08 | ||||
| Date: | 10 May 11 | Flight Time: | 1.42 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Binnie | WK2 FTE: | M. Stinemetze |
| SS2 Pilot: | Stucky | SS2 CoPilot: | Shane | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
SS2 photo/safety chase
Results:
All objectives met.
| Flight: | 58 / GF07 | ||||
| Date: | 4 May 11 | Flight Time: | 2.03 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Maisler | WK2 FTE: | Inks |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Nichols | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
SS2 photo/safety chase
Results:
All objectives met.
| Flight: | 57 / GF06 | ||||
| Date: | 27 Apr 11 | Flight Time: | 1.26 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Persall |
| SS2 Pilot: | Stucky | SS2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives met.
| Flight: | 56 / GF05 | ||||
| Date: | 22 Apr 11 | Flight Time: | 1.4 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | WK2 FTE: | Inks |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Shane | ||
Objectives:
ECS evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 55 / CC11 | ||||||
| Date: | 14 Apr 11 | Flight Time: | 3.67 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Maisler | WK2 FTE: | Tighe | ||
| SS2 Pilot: | Stucky | SS2 CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | ||||
| GS Crew: | Persall |
Objectives:
Pilot proficiency
Photo chase
SS2 systems checkouts
Results:
Great pictures and successful systems tests.
| Flight: | 54 | ||||||
| Date: | 11 Apr 11 | Flight Time: | 1.76 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Shane | WK2 FTE: | J. Stinemetze | ||
| GS Crew: | Tighe |
Objectives:
Pilot proficiency
Brake energy test
Results:
9 approaches flown. All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 53 / CC10 | ||||||
| Date: | 7 Apr 11 | Flight Time: | 1.35 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | WK2 FTE: | Maisler | ||
| GS Crew: | Tighe |
Objectives:
Speed-power
Return from SFO Terminal 2 grand opening event
Results:
WK2 and SS2 returned home to Mojave Air and Space Port.
| Flight: | 52 / CC09 | ||||||
| Date: | 6 Apr 11 | Flight Time: | 2.83 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | WK2 FTE: | Maisler | ||
| GS Crew: | Tighe |
Objectives:
Rudder trim evaluation
Formation flight with Virgin America A320 over the Golden Gate bridge
SFO Terminal 2 grand opening event
Results:
The Virgin America A320 and WK2 flew in formation with photo chase over the Golden Gate bridge and performed simultaneous landings on runways 28L and 28R at SFO.
| Flight: | 51 | ||||||
| Date: | 30 Mar 11 | Flight Time: | 1.7 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Stucky | WK2 FTE: | Inks | ||
| GS Crew: | Tighe |
Objectives:
Gear modifications evaluation
GF05 simulated SS2 descent
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple ILS approaches flown at surrounding airports. Multiple SS2 approaches flown for proficiency.
| Flight: | 50 | ||||||
| Date: | 30 Mar 11 | Flight Time: | 3.25 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Maisler | WK2 FTE: | Inks | ||
| GS Crew: | Binnie, Tighe, Morgan, Kelley, Persall, Reid |
Objectives:
Gear modifications evaluation
GF05 simulated SS2 descent
Pilot proficiency
ECS and payload bleed evaluation
INS air align evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. Gear modifications successfully tested with 15 cycles at various speeds and altitude. Multiple ILS approaches flown at surrounding airports. Multiple SS2 approaches flown for proficiency.
| Flight: | 49 / 05GC (CC08) | ||||||
| Date: | 15 Feb 11 | Flight Time: | 1.83 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Inks | ||
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | ||||
| GS Crew: | Binnie, Tighe, Basset, Verderame, Maisler, Kelley, Reid, Zeitlin, Knupp, Cassebeer |
Objectives:
Clean release
Expand flutter envelope
Weight expansion
Pilot proficiency
Results:
Due to deteriorating weather, conducted simulated mission and systems testing.
| Flight: | 48 / 05GC (CC07) | ||||||
| Date: | 14 Feb 11 | Flight Time: | 1.35 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Inks | ||
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | ||||
| GS Crew: | Binnie, Tighe, Basset, Verderame, Maisler, Kelley, Reid, Zeitlin, Knupp, Cassebeer |
Objectives:
Clean release
Expand flutter envelope
Weight expansion
Pilot proficiency
Results:
Due to out of limit winds, conducted simulated mission and systems testing.
| Flight: | 47 / GF04 | ||||
| Date: | 13 Jan 11 | Flight Time: | 1.4 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | WK2 FTE: | Knupp |
| SS2 Pilot: | Stucky | SS2 CoPilot: | Nichols | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release
Touch-and-Gos'
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 46 | ||||
| Date: | 3 Dec 10 | Flight Time: | 2.5 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Knupp |
| GS Crew: | Maisler | ||||
Objectives:
Window fogging evaluation
SS2 glide flight and WK2 pilot and co-pilot landing proficiency
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 45 / GF03 | ||||||
| Date: | 17 Nov 10 | Flight Time: | 2 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | WK2 FTE: | Morgan | ||
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Nichols | ||||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 44 / GF02 | ||||
| Date: | 28 Oct 10 | Flight Time: | 1.1 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Tighe |
| SS2 Pilot: | Stucky | SS2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | ||
Objectives:
SS2 release mission
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 43 / CC06 | ||||||
| Date: | 22 Oct 10 | Flight Time: | 3.4 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Inks | ||
| GS Crew: | Kelley, Kalogiannis, Tighe |
Objectives:
Return flight from Spaceport America runway dedication event
Instrument approach currency
SS2 approach practice
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | F42 / CC05 | ||||||
| Date: | 22 Oct 10 | Flight Time: | 3.4 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Inks | ||
| GS Crew: | Kelley, Kalogiannis, Tighe |
Objectives:
First SS2 cross country flight
Spaceport America runway dedication event
Environmental control system high-altitude stress test
Extended flight in instrument meteorological conditions
SS2 approach replication
Results:
All objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 41 / GF01 | ||||
| Date: | 10 Oct 10 | Flight Time: | 1.5 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | WK2 FTE: | Persall |
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | ||
Objectives:
SS2 launch mission
NM flight maneuver practice
Results:
All objectives achieved. Launched SS2 at 46,000 ft. Practiced flight maneuver routine for NM.
| Flight: | 40 | ||||
| Date: | 5 Oct 10 | Flight Time: | 2 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Alsbury | FTE: | Tighe |
Objectives:
SS2 release dry run
Glide flight practice
SS2 approach simulations
Crew proficiency
ECS testing
Results:
All objectives achieved. Rehearsal SS2 mission performed. Three simulated SS2 approaches to low approaches followed by a full stop landing.
| Flight: | 39 / CC04 | ||||||
| Date: | 30 Sept 10 | Flight Time: | 5 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | WK2 FTE: | Persall | ||
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | ||||
Objectives:
SS2 systems evaluation
TM performance
SS2 flutter evaluation
Pilot proficiency
SS2 approach evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. Rehearsal mission to evaluate team and systems for early glides was performed. Simulated SS2 mission was flown to low approach. WK2 systems functioned as desired to support SS2 glide mission.
| Flight: | 38 | ||||
| Date: | 13 Sept 10 | Flight Time: | 2.5 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Stucky | FTE: | Inks |
Objectives:
Fixed gear performance
Simulated SS2 glide mission
Simulated SS2 approaches
Pilot T&G proficiency (normal patterns)
Pylon evaluation
Rudder repair evaluation
Lateral stability evaluation
ECS performance evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. Two SS2 approaches to low approach. Two touch-and-go approaches. One full stop. Fixes/modifications cleared for SS2 ops.
| Flight: | 37 | ||||
| Date: | 19 Aug 10 | Flight Time: | 1.5 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Zeitlin |
Objectives:
Dark cockpit APU start
Rudder centering test
Simulated SS2 glide mission
Simulated SS2 approaches
Pilot proficiency
Results:
All flight objectives achieved. On the fifth touch-and-go, a minor incident occurred on the runway at Mojave airport, which involved a mechanical problem with the left hand-side landing gear of WK2. The aircraft was braked to maintain centerline, meanwhile, the engines and systems were secured. No injuries were sustained.
| Flight: | 36 | ||||
| Date: | 18 Aug 10 | Flight Time: | 3.9 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Alsbury | FTE: | Maisler |
Objectives:
APU ground and air evaluation (to include aircraft engine restarts at high altitude)
Spoil/flap envelope expansion
ECS data collection
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Ongoing WK2 system evaluations
Results:
All objectives achieved. Five SS2 approaches flown. Eight WK2 practice landings flown.
| Flight: | 35 | ||||
| Date: | 11 Aug 10 | Flight Time: | 3.7 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Alsbury | FTE: | Agold |
Objectives:
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Ongoing WK2 system evaluations
Results:
All objectives achieved. Nine SS2 approaches flown.
| Flight: | 34 | ||||
| Date: | 3 Aug 10 | Flight Time: | 5.8 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Maisler |
Objectives:
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Sixteen practice landings flown. Seven simulated SS2 approaches flown.
| Flight: | 33 / CC03 | ||||||
| Date: | 15 Jul 10 | Flight Time: | 6.2 hr | ||||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | WK2 FTE: | Maisler | ||
| SS2 Pilot: | Siebold | SS2 CoPilot: | Alsbury | ||||
Objectives:
SS2 manned captive carry
Mated flutter evaluation
SS2 systems evaluation
SS2 mission rehearsal
Results:
Objectives achieved. Pilots in SS2 evaluated the systems and procedures for the upcoming glide flights. A simulated SS2 mission was flown from release down to low approach. Performed low approach then full stop on Runway 30.
| Flight: | 32 | ||||
| Date: | 1 Jul 10 | Flight Time: | 5.3 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Stucky | FTE: | Harvey |
Objectives:
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple SS2 approaches flown.
| Flight: | 31 | ||||
| Date: | 30 Jun 10 | Flight Time: | 5.3 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Siebold | FTE: | Agold |
Objectives:
Payload ECS heat characterization
SS2 release dry run
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple SS2 approaches flown to touchdown.
| Flight: | 30 | ||||
| Date: | 24 Jun 10 | Flight Time: | 2 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Alsbury | FTE: | Reeder |
Objectives:
SS2 approach simulations
GF01 glide card practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple SS2 approaches flown to touchdown.
| Flight: | 29 | ||||
| Date: | 24 Jun 10 | Flight Time: | 3.4 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Persall |
Objectives:
SS2 release dry run
SS2 GF01 mission practice
SS2 approach practice
Crew proficiency and training
Results:
All objectives achieved. Multiple SS2 approaches flown to touchdown.
| Flight: | 28 | ||||
| Date: | 15 Jun 10 | Flight Time: | 5.3 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Stucky | FTE: | M. Stinemetze |
Objectives:
SS2 mission practice
ECS evaluation
Control evaluation
Low fuel evaluation
Window fog evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. Climed to 51,500 ft and the ECS performed flawlessly. Flew cross-country to descend over the Pacific to evaluate window fogging. Upon return to the desert, performed controls evaluation which showed good positive control with power loss. Performed "roller coasters" (45° climb, low g pushover followed by 30° nose low dive) to evaluate low fuel states. Touch-and-gos' were uneventful. Full stop landing on Rwy 26.
| Flight: | 27 / CC02 | ||||
| Date: | 16 May 10 | Flight Time: | 4.7 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Siebold | WK2 CoPilot: | Stucky | WK2 FTE: | Maisler |
Objectives:
SS2 pressurization evaluation
SS2 electrical system evaluation
SS2 avionics performance evaluation
SS2 approaches
Post-Flight cold soaked systems testing
Results:
All objectives achieved. SS2 was pressurized and powered from the mothership in flight. Peak altitude was 51,000 ft which allowed for a long cold-soak to evaluate the robustness of the hardware. A simulated Spaceship descent/glide mission was made from altitude to high key. Several approaches followed for pilot training/proficiency.
| Flight: | 26 | ||||
| Date: | 1 May 10 | Flight Time: | 5.5 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Shane | FTE: | Maisler |
Objectives:
New hydraulic speedbrake evaluation
Pylon on altitude envelope expansion
SS2 mission practice
Pilot qualitative evaluation
Results:
All objectives achieved. New hydraulically actuated speedbrakes performed as designed. Expanded envelope with pylon installed to 51,000 ft. SS2 approaches flown to RWY 30. For the first time on the program, crew landed on the shorter, narrower 26 RWY.
| Flight: | 25 / CC01 | ||||
| Date: | 22 Mar 10 | Flight Time: | 2.9 hr | ||
| WK2 Pilot: | Stucky | WK2 CoPilot: | Nichols | WK2 FTE: | Kalogiannis |
Objectives:
Captive taxi handling
Speed/altitude envelope expansion
Captive performance, stability and control evaluation
SS2 systems evaluation
Photo and video
Results:
All objectives achieved. Systems performed as designed. Kudos to the entire team for executing an exceptionally clean and successful first captive flight!
| Flight: | 24 | ||||
| Date: | 4 Mar 10 | Flight Time: | 3.7 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Kalogiannis |
Objectives:
Nosegear mod evaluation
Pylon evaluation
ECS evaluation
Results:
Objectives met. Successful evaluation of launch pylon effect on aircraft performance, handling and controls. Fired pylon mechanism in flight for first time.
| Flight: | 23 | ||||
| Date: | 28 Jan 10 | Flight Time: | 3.1 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Binnie | FTE: | Kalogiannis |
Objectives:
Launch pylon envelope expansion and performance effects
Landing gear door evaluation
SpaceShipTwo approach guidance evaluation
Pilot proficiency
Results:
Launch pylon and gear doors performed well. Multiple SpaceShipTwo approaches flown.
| Flight: | 22 | ||||
| Date: | 17 Oct 09 | Flight Time: | 1.2 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | FTE: | M. Stinemetze |
Objectives:
Spoilflap loads data
Continued ECS testing
GPS airspeed calibration
Return from Edwards Air Show
Results:
Objectives achieved. Airborne pickup and unrestricted climb departure from Edwards Open House with WK.
| Flight: | 21 | ||||
| Date: | 17 Oct 09 | Flight Time: | 1.3 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | FTE: | M. Stinemetze |
Objectives:
Spoilflap loads data
ECS evaluation
GPS airspeed calibration
Roll effects of angle of attack
Edwards Air Show practice
Results:
GPS airspeed cal and approaches scrubbed for time. Other objectives achieved. Demo performed on arrival to Edwards Air Force Base "Flight Test Nation" Open House/Air Show.
| Flight: | 20 | ||||
| Date: | 15 Oct 09 | Flight Time: | 3.5 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Kalogiannis | FTE: | M. Stinemetze |
Objectives:
Modified spoilflap envelope expansion
Pressurization/ECS functionality with SS2 valves to 50,000 ft
Landing gear/spoilflap cold soak extension retraction
Fuel system temperature evaluation
Avionics and instrument approach checkout
Aircrew proficiency
Edwards Air Show practice
Results:
Objectives achieved.
| Flight: | 19 | ||||
| Date: | 1 August 09 | Flight Time: | 5.1 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Morgan |
Objectives:
Return to Mojave
Results:
Evaluated systems functionality and performance on return trip to Mojave.
| Flight: | 18 | ||||
| Date: | 31 July 09 | Flight Time: | 0.2 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Morgan |
Objectives:
Oshkosh demo flight
Results:
Demo flight performed.
| Flight: | 17 | ||||
| Date: | 28 July 09 | Flight Time: | 0.2 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Branson |
Objectives:
Oshkosh demo flight
Results:
Demo flight performed.
| Flight: | 16 | ||||
| Date: | 27 July 09 | Flight Time: | 5.5 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Morgan |
Objectives:
Cross country to Oshkosh AirVenture
Results:
Evaluated systems functionality and performance on trip to Oshkosh. Arrived at KOSH and performed short demo flight.
| Flight: | 15 | ||||
| Date: | 21 July 09 | Flight Time: | 5.7 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | Morgan |
Objectives:
Oshkosh dress rehersal
Results:
Objectives achieved. Practiced all procedures and plans in preparation for our long cross country to the Oshkosh AirVenture Convention. Practiced demo flight after simulated mission profile.
| Flight: | 14 | ||||
| Date: | 17 July 09 | Flight Time: | 0.9 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Siebold | FTE: | None |
Objectives:
Evaluate new DAS build
Instrument approach practice
FAA monitored flight for pilot "Type Rating"
Results:
All objectives completed. Rating Issued.
| Flight: | 13 | ||||
| Date: | 14 July 09 | Flight Time: | 5 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Siebold | FTE: | None |
Objectives:
Evaluate control surface mods
Evaluate pitot probe relocation
Instrument approach practice
Pilot LOA practice
Results:
All objectives completed. Peak altitude for flight 51,000 ft. Instrument approaches practiced. LOA maneuvers practiced.
| Flight: | 12 | ||||
| Date: | 9 July 09 | Flight Time: | 4.5 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Stucky | CoPilot: | Siebold | FTE: | Nichols |
Objectives:
ECS evaluation
Third seat evaluation
Performance
Landing gear envelope expansion
Results:
All objectives completed. ECS shows exceptional cabin heating and cooling capability. Third seat adequate for test engineer duties. Gear extended out to 160 KEAS. Peak altitude for flight 51,000 ft. Instrument approach and touch-and-go at Victorville.
| Flight: | 11 | ||||
| Date: | 20 June 09 | Flight Time: | 3 hr (planned) | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | None |
Objectives:
Flyby at Los Cruses, NM in support of Spaceport America event
Instrument approaches
Results:
Despite mechanical issues the day before, the Scaled team was able to turn the jet around for a Saturday morning demo at Los Cruses. Several flybys and approaches were performed for spectators in support of the Spaceport America groundbreaking. Systems were evaluated on the high altitude return leg to Mojave. One simulated approach was made to runway 26 before landing on 30.
| Flight: | 10 | ||||
| Date: | 19 June 09 | Flight Time: | 6 hr (planned) | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | None |
Objectives:
To evaluate performance, stability and control, and cold soak effects on first long cross country
Flyby at Spaceport America as able
Results:
En route testing above 40,000 ft was uneventful. During the descent toward the Spaceport America groundbreaking we experienced a failure of a speedbrake actuator. Based on facilities available and logistics for our ground crew, the pilots elected to make a precautionary landing at Williams Gateway airport near Phoenix. Our ground crew is on site and we hope to return to Mojave either this afternoon or tomorrow morning.
| Flight: | 09 | ||||
| Date: | 15 June 09 | Flight Time: | 7.5 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Stucky | FTE: | None |
Objectives:
Weight expansion at mid cg
Further pressurization/ECS functionality checks to 51,000 ft
Speed envelope expansion
Airborne engine relights
Results:
All objectives completed. Pressurization and ECS worked as designed. Speed envelope expanded with the gear up to 370 KTAS. Peak altitudes increased to 52,400 ft. Performance, stability and handling evaluation performed at altitude. Engines were shut down and restarted per plan. Practiced instrument approaches.
| Flight: | 08 | ||||
| Date: | 11 June 09 | Flight Time: | 1 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Nichols | FTE: | None |
Objectives:
FAA monitored flight for issuance of pilot letter of authorization
Results:
Letter of authorization issued
| Flight: | 07 | ||||
| Date: | 8 June 09 | Flight Time: | 6.1 hr | ||
| Pilot: | Siebold | CoPilot: | Alsbury | FTE: | None |
Objectives:
Weight expansion at mid cg
Further pressurization/ECS functionality checks to 45,000 ft
Speed envelope expansion
G envelope expansion
Airborne engine relights
