Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > Peter Butt Transport Collection
Curtiss XP-55 Ascender 42-78847
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Curtiss XP-55 Ascender 42-78847
Curtiss XP-55 Ascender 3rd prototype. Experimental swept wing-canard interceptor. Stability and control problems were never fully resolved. Date: circa 1970
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 21131099
© The Peter Butt Aviation Collection / Mary Evans
1970 Control Curtiss Experimental Fully Interceptor Problems Prototype Resolved Stability Swept
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases the third prototype of the Curtiss XP-55 Ascender, registration number 42-78847, an experimental swept wing-canard interceptor produced by Curtiss in the late 1940s. The XP-55 Ascender was designed as a response to the United States Army Air Forces' requirement for a high-performance interceptor aircraft. The innovative design featured a swept wing and canard configuration, which was intended to improve stability and maneuverability at high speeds. However, despite its promising design, the XP-55 Ascender encountered significant issues with stability and control. The complex wing and canard configuration proved to be challenging to perfect, and the aircraft's handling characteristics were far from ideal. These problems were never fully resolved, and the XP-55 Ascender failed to progress beyond the prototype stage. This photograph, taken circa 1970, captures the third prototype of the XP-55 Ascender as it undergoes testing at a military airfield. The aircraft's sleek lines and advanced design are evident, but the expression on the test pilot's face suggests the challenges that lay ahead. The XP-55 Ascender remains an intriguing footnote in aviation history, a bold experiment in aerodynamic design that ultimately fell short of its goals. The Curtiss XP-55 Ascender 42-78847 is an important piece of aviation history, a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the engineers and designers who worked on the project. This photograph offers a unique glimpse into the past, a reminder of the risks and rewards of pushing the boundaries of aviation technology.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
