Title: Eclipse Tow Launch Concept
Designer: Unknown
Year it was designed: circa 1997
Explanation or story behind the patch: NASA Dryden supported and hosted a Kelly Space and Technology, Inc., (KST)/USAF project, known as Eclipse, which demonstrated a tow-launch concept for a low-cost reusable launch vehicle. The goal of the project was to successfully tow in flight a modified QF-106A delta-wing aircraft with an Air Force C-141A transport-type aircraft using a 1,000-foot-long Vectran rope. Dryden was the Responsible Test Organization and had flight safety responsibility for the Eclipse project. Dryden also supplied engineering, instrumentation, simulation, modification, maintenance, range support, research pilots, and chase aircraft for the test series. These tests demonstrated the viability of towing a delta-wing air vehicle, validate the tow simulation model, and demonstrate operational procedures. Technicians at Dryden modified the QF-106A to convert it into the EXD-01 Eclipse Experimental Demonstrator. Mark Stucky was selected as project pilot. Six tethered flights took place between 20 December 1997 and 6 February 1998. The airplane was then restored to original condition and returned to the Air Force.
For more information on the Eclipse Tow Launch Concept, click https://www.nasa.gov/centers/dryden/news/FactSheets/FS-049-DFRC.html