LB-X

X-Prize suborbital spaceplane concept of Kelly Space & Technology, San Bernardino, California.

LB-X was designed by a team led by Michael Gallo of Kelly Space & Technology, San Bernardino, California. In common with other Kelly proposals, the vehicle would be air towed to launch by a 747, accelerate to outer space, then make a horizontal glide landing at any conventional runway. The vehicle was a rocket-powered delta wing glider with a liquid oxygen and kerosene liquid rocket engine. However Kelly, after conducting tow tests with an F-106 fighter, was unable to raise enough funds for development of either the LB-X or their Astroliner orbital vehicle.

• 1998 February 1 - Kelly demonstrates towing. - Program: X-Prize.

  Kelly Space & Technology (San Bernardino, CA, USA) successfully demonstrates vehicle towing.