EC96-43631-5
This artist’s rendering depicts the Rockwell International X-33 technology demonstrator. This was to be the basis for a Single-Stage-To-Orbit (SSTO) Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV). NASA considered design submissions from Rockwell, Lockheed Martin, and McDonnell Douglas. NASA selected Lockheed Martin’s design on 2 July 1996. The RLV technology program was a cooperative agreement between NASA and industry. The goal of the RLV technology program was to achieve significant reductions in the cost of access to space, and to promote the creation and delivery of new space services and other activities that were to improve U.S. economic competitiveness.May 1996NASA Photo / Computer art by J. Frassanito & Associates› X-33 Project Description