Bell XP-59A Airacomet, 1942 C016 / 4328
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Bell XP-59A Airacomet, 1942 C016 / 4328
Bell XP-59A Airacomet in flight. This was the US militarys first jet fighter aircraft. It was designed and built by Bell Aircraft during World War II, and first flew in October 1942. It was extensively flight-tested in secrecy at the Muroc Flight Test Base (North Base), now Edwards Air Force Base, California, USA. However, the US Army Air Force (the predecessor of the US Air Force) was not satisfied with the performance of the aircraft and cancelled the contract. This aircraft had a single pilot, a wingspan of 14 metres, and a range of 600 kilometres. It was armed with a cannon, three machine guns, and rockets and bombs. Photographed in 1942
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Media ID 9204679
© LIBRARY OF CONGRESS/US AIR FORCE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 1940s 1942 2nd World War Aeronautics Aeroplane Aircraft Airplane Aviation California Cancelled Edwards Air Force Base Fighter Flying Habs Haer Hals Historic American Buildings Survey Historic American Engineering Record Historic American Landscapes Survey In Flight Military North American Plane Prototype Second World War Test Flight Testing Transport Transportation Warfare World War 2 World War Ii World War Two Wwii Turbojet Us Army Air Force
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Bell XP-59A Airacomet, a groundbreaking aircraft that marked a significant milestone in military aviation. Designed and constructed by Bell Aircraft during World War II, this prototype jet fighter took to the skies for its inaugural flight in October 1942. The photograph captures the historic moment of the XP-59A soaring through the sky with grace and power. The secretive testing of this technological marvel occurred at Muroc Flight Test Base, now known as Edwards Air Force Base in California. However, despite its innovative design and capabilities, the US Army Air Force ultimately decided to cancel further development due to concerns over performance. With a single pilot at its helm, this aircraft boasted an impressive wingspan of 14 meters and had a range of 600 kilometers. Armed with cannons, machine guns, rockets, and bombs, it embodied both speed and firepower. As we gaze upon this image frozen in time from 1942, we are reminded of the immense strides made in aviation during World War II. The Bell XP-59A Airacomet stands as a testament to human ingenuity and determination to push boundaries even amidst wartime constraints. This photograph is part of the Library of Congress/US Air Force collection held by Science Photo Library—a visual treasure trove preserving historical moments that shaped our world.
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