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Two 1:30 scale display models of the North American X-15 hypersonic research aircraft and a NASA X-38 space vehicle, each mounted on its original presentation stand. The X-15 model, constructed in black with NASA and U.S. Air Force markings, measures approximately 12.5˝ x 5.5˝ and is mounted on a triangular wood display base lettered: “North American X-15.” The underside bears a label reading: “Presented by Rick’s Models.” The X-38 model, finished in white and black with NASA insignia and “United States” markings, measures approximately 10˝ x 5.5˝ and is mounted on a black presentation base stamped: “X-38, Scale 1:30.” The underside bears a manufacturer’s label from the Toys & Models Corporation of the Philippines. In overall very good to fine condition, with light surface wear and minor scuffing to the models and bases.
The North American X-15 was among the most important experimental aircraft of the Cold War era, developed jointly by NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and the U.S. Navy to explore the limits of hypersonic and high-altitude flight. Flown between 1959 and 1968, the rocket-powered aircraft achieved speeds exceeding Mach 6 and altitudes above 50 miles, with several pilots earning astronaut wings. The NASA X-38, developed decades later, was conceived as an emergency crew return vehicle for the International Space Station, combining lifting-body design concepts with autonomous reentry capabilities. Although the program was ultimately canceled in 2002 before it reached operational status, the X-38 represented an important step in reusable spacecraft research and in advanced atmospheric reentry testing.
The David Heshion Collection.
