X-15 Flight 3-65-97 Crash

On November 15, 1967, the X-15 Flight 3-65-97 experienced a catastrophic failure during a test flight, resulting in the death of pilot Michael J. Adams.

The wreckage of North American X-15 Flight 3-65-97, which crashed on November 15, 1967, killing USAF astronaut Michael J. Adams.
The wreckage of North American X-15-3, which crashed on November 15, 1967, killing USAF astronaut Michael J. Adams.

Beginning in the 1940’s, one of the most important locations for flight testing in the United States is the Mojave Air and Space Port, located in the Mojave Desert in California. With its wide-open spaces, dry climate, and proximity to aerospace companies and research facilities, the Mojave has become a hub for experimental aircraft testing and research, playing a vital role in advancing the field of aviation. In this report, we will explore the history and significance of flight testing in the Mojave, and examine some of the groundbreaking aircraft and technologies that have been developed and tested in this unique location.

The X-15 was a rocket-powered experimental aircraft developed by the United States Air Force and NASA in the 1950s and 1960s and the pinnacle of speed testing in the 1960’s. On November 15, 1967, the X-15 experienced a catastrophic crash during a test flight, resulting in the death of pilot Michael J. Adams. The crash was a tragic event in the history of experimental aviation and highlighted the risks and challenges of pushing the boundaries of technological innovation.

X-15 mounted below the wing of a B-52 while in flight.
X-15 mounted below the wing of a B-52 while in flight.

The X-15 was designed to fly at extremely high speeds and altitudes, reaching speeds of up to Mach 6.7 (about 4,500 miles per hour) and altitudes of over 350,000 feet. It was powered by a rocket engine and was capable of carrying out a wide range of scientific and engineering experiments in the upper atmosphere and beyond.

On the day of the crash, Adams was piloting the X-15 on its 191st test flight. The flight was intended to test a new navigation system and to gather data on the effects of high-altitude flight on the human body. The X-15 was carried to an altitude of 45,000 feet by a B-52 bomber, and then released to continue its ascent on its own.

However, shortly after reaching an altitude of about 50 miles, the X-15 began to experience control problems. The aircraft began to roll and yaw uncontrollably, and Adams was unable to regain control. The X-15 eventually went into a spin and began to break apart, with Adams ejecting from the aircraft at an altitude of about 15,000 feet. Tragically, Adams was unable to survive the ejection and the subsequent impact with the ground.

The cause of the X-15 crash was later determined to be a malfunction in the aircraft’s control system. Specifically, one of the X-15’s two reaction control system thrusters had become stuck in the “on” position, causing the aircraft to go into an uncontrolled spin. Despite efforts to regain control, the X-15 was unable to recover from the spin and ultimately crashed.

The X-15 crash was a tragic event that highlighted both the risks and rewards of pushing the boundaries of technological innovation. While the loss of Michael J. Adams was a devastating blow to the aviation community, his legacy lives on in the many important scientific and engineering discoveries made possible by the X-15 program.

X-15 Flight 3-65-97

X-15 Flight 3-65-97 came to rest East of Mojave just North of Highway 58. The site contains a small memorial and one should remember that a brave man lost his life at this location.

References

YB-49 Crash Site

The YB-49 was a prototype jet-powered flying wing aircraft designed and built by Northrop Corporation in the 1940s and 1950s. On June 5, 1948, the YB-49 experienced a catastrophic crash near Mojave in Los Angeles County, California, which resulted in the death of all five crew members on board. Captain Glen Edwards was the co-pilot of the flight, and the namesake of Edwards Air Force Base. The crash was a significant event in aviation history, as it raised questions about the safety of experimental aircraft and the future of jet-powered flight.

On June 5, 1948, the YB-49 experienced a catastrophic crash that resulted in the death of all five crew members on board.
On June 5, 1948, the YB-49 experienced a catastrophic crash that resulted in the death of all five crew members on board.

The YB-49 was designed as a successor to the earlier Northrop XB-35 flying wing bomber, which had been developed during World War II. The YB-49 was a radical departure from traditional aircraft design, with no tail or fuselage and a single large wing that housed the crew, engines, and weapons. The aircraft was powered by eight General Electric J35 turbojet engines and was capable of speeds up to 500 miles per hour and altitudes up to 40,000 feet.

On the day of the crash, the YB-49 took off from Muroc Air Force Base in California for a test flight. The flight was routine until about an hour into the flight, when the aircraft suddenly went into an uncontrolled spin and crashed into the desert floor. The cause of the crash was later determined to be a malfunction in the aircraft’s flight control system, which caused the elevons (the wing-mounted control surfaces that control pitch and roll) to become stuck in a partially raised position. This caused the aircraft to become unstable and enter the spin.

Brave Men Lost

The crash of the YB-49 cost these men their lives:

  • Major Daniel H. Forbes, Jr. – Pilot
  • Captain Glen W. Edwards – Copilot
  • Lt. Edward L. Swindell – Flight Engineer
  • Clare C. Lesser – Air Force civilian engineers
  • Charles H. LaFountain – Air Force civilian engineers

Muroc AFB was renamed Edwards AFB on December 5, 1949 in honor of the late Capt. Glen W Edwards

The crash of the YB-49 was a major setback for Northrop Corporation, which had invested significant time and resources into the development of the flying wing design. It also raised concerns about the safety of experimental aircraft and the need for more rigorous testing and evaluation of new designs before they are put into service. In the years following the crash, Northrop continued to develop and refine the flying wing design, eventually leading to the development of the B-2 stealth bomber, which entered service with the U.S. Air Force in the 1990s.

The crash of the YB-49 was a tragic event that highlighted the risks and challenges of experimental aircraft design. However, it also spurred innovation and development in the aviation industry, leading to the creation of new and advanced aircraft designs that continue to shape the field of aviation today.

YB-49 Crash Site Location summary

NameYB-49 Crash Site
LocationMojave Desert, Los Angeles County, California
Latitude, Longitude35.04243, -117.9926

YB-49 Trail Map

The YB-49 came to rest East of Mojave just North of Highway 58. The site contains a small memorial and one should remember that this is the location of the deaths of five brave men.

References

Happy Bottom Riding Club

Pancho Barnes, Happy Bottom Riding Club.  Photo Curtesy of the U.S. Air Force
Pancho Barnes, Happy Bottom Riding Club. Photo Curtesy of the U.S. Air Force

The Happy Bottom Riding Club was a legendary dude ranch and restaurant located in the Mojave Desert in California. The club was opened by aviator and screenwriter Pancho Barnes in the 1930s and quickly became a popular hangout for Hollywood celebrities, pilots, and other socialites.

The History of the Happy Bottom Riding Club

Pancho Barnes, born Florence Lowe Barnes in 1901, was a pioneering aviatrix who set numerous speed and altitude records in the early days of aviation. She was also a talented screenwriter who worked on several Hollywood films, including “Hell’s Angels,” directed by Howard Hughes.

In the 1930s, Barnes purchased a ranch in the Mohave and converted it into a private airfield. She named it the Happy Bottom Riding Club, after the nickname she earned as a pilot for her daring landings in dry lakebeds. The airfield quickly became a popular destination for pilots and aviation enthusiasts, who would fly in for weekend parties and barnstorming exhibitions.

Barnes also built a large clubhouse on the property, which she turned into a nightclub. The club was decorated with aviation memorabilia and had a western-themed bar and dance floor. Barnes hosted lavish parties at the club, inviting Hollywood celebrities, politicians, and other high-profile guests.

The Happy Bottom Riding Club was famous for its rowdy, freewheeling atmosphere. Barnes was known for her colorful personality and love of partying, and she encouraged her guests to let loose and have fun. The club was also known for its raunchy sense of humor and off-color jokes.

Despite its reputation as a wild party spot, the Happy Bottom Riding Club was also a place of innovation and progress. Barnes used the club as a base for her aviation business, which included flight instruction, aircraft maintenance, and aerial photography. She also provided a space for women pilots to gather and share their experiences in a male-dominated industry.

Decline of the Happy Bottom Riding Club

In the 1950s, the government took over her airfield and turned it into a military base. Barnes was forced to sell her property and move her business elsewhere. The club was a favorite haunt of many test pilots and future astronauts, perhaps the most famous was Chuck Yaeger who became the first man to break the sound barrier.

The Happy Bottom Riding Club continued to operate under new ownership for a few more years, but it was never the same without Barnes’ larger-than-life personality at the helm. The club eventually closed its doors in the 1950s and the building was demolished.

Despite its relatively short lifespan, the Happy Bottom Riding Club remains a legendary spot in aviation and Hollywood history. The ranch is destroyed by fire on November 13, 1953. Today, the ranch is located on land controlled by Edwards Air Force base.

Legacy of the Happy Bottom Riding Club

Today, the Happy Bottom Riding Club lives on in popular culture as a symbol of a bygone era of glamour, adventure, and fun. It has been referenced in movies, TV shows, and music, and continues to inspire people around the world to pursue their dreams and live life with gusto.

In 1988, a group of aviation enthusiasts founded the Pancho Barnes Trust Estate, which works to preserve Barnes’ legacy and promote aviation education. The organization has hosted several events and fundraisers over the years, including a biennial fly-in at the Mojave Air and Space Port.

In 2009, a feature film about Barnes’ life and career, titled “The Legend of Pancho Barnes and the Happy Bottom Riding Club,” was released. The film, directed by Amanda Pope, received critical acclaim and helped introduce Barnes’ story to a new generation.

References

Tecopa Inyo County

Tecopa is a small town located in the southeastern part of California, United States and its named for Chief Tecopa. The town is situated in the Mojave Desert, at an elevation of 1,340 feet. The population in the last census is just over 150 people, making it a very small and quiet community.

Old Tecopa house at smelter on Willow Creek, Amargosa Valley. Dr. Noble, Mrs. Noble. Inyo County, CA. 1922 - Photo from Herbert E. Gregory Book 8: 1915 - 1924.
Old Tecopa house at smelter on Willow Creek, Amargosa Valley. Dr. Noble, Mrs. Noble. Inyo County, CA. 1922 – Photo from Herbert E. Gregory Book 8: 1915 – 1924.

The town of Tecopa is best known for its hot springs and other natural attractions. The hot springs are located in the eastern part of town, and are known for their therapeutic properties. Many people visit this location specifically for the hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties and are said to be beneficial for various health conditions. There are several hot spring resorts in the area, where visitors can relax and enjoy the warm waters.

Apart from the hot springs, Tecopa is also home to other natural attractions such as the Tecopa Marsh Wildlife Refuge and the Amargosa River. The Tecopa Marsh Wildlife Refuge is a wetland area that is home to many species of birds and other wildlife. The Amargosa River runs through the town, and is an important water source for the local flora and fauna.

Tecopa has a rich history and cultural heritage. The town was first settled by the Shoshone and Paiute Native American tribes, who were later joined by early pioneers and miners. The old mining town of Tecopa was established in the late 1800s, and the ruins of several old mines and mining camps can still be seen in the area.

Today

Tecopa is a popular tourist destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing retreat in nature. The town offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and exploring the local history and culture. Visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine, which features traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Perhaps, the towns biggest draw is a variety of Hot Springs that are available.

The small town that offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history, and culture. Its hot springs, wildlife, and other natural attractions make it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Tecopa Summary

NameTecopa, California
LocationInyo County, California
Population175
Latitude, Longitude35.8470, -116.2258
Elevation1,340 feet

Tecopa Map

Tecopa is located a file miles east of the California State Route 127 on the Old Spanish Trail Highway.

References

Christopher Houston Carson

Christopher Houston Carson (December 24, 1809 â€“ May 23, 1868), also known as “Kit” Carson, was a nineteenth century American Frontiersman, Army Officer and Politician and the namesake of Carson City, Nevada. During his lifetime, he achieved notoriety for his exploits as an Indian Fighter, Fur Tapper, Mountain man

Christopher 'Kit' Carson (1809-1868), American explorer - Photograph byMathew Brady or Levin C. Handy - This image is available from the United States Library of Congress's Prints and Photographs division under the digital ID cwpbh.00514.
Christopher ‘Kit’ Carson (1809-1868), American explorer – Photograph by Mathew Brady or Levin C. Handy – This image is available from the United States Library of Congress’s Prints and Photographs division.

Carson was born on December 24, 1809 in Madison County, Kentucky to Lindsey Carson and Rebecca Robinson Carson. He is a cousin to Danial Boone on his mothers’ side. The family moved to Missouri two years later. Survival being the priority, Carson never learned to read or write. At the age of 16, he signed up with a large caravan of merchants headed west towards Santa Fe.

Exploration

In 1854, a change encounter with the explorer John C. Frémont, made Carson an active participant in the clash of empires that eventually extended the boundaries of the continental United States to its present. The two men met aboard a steamboat on the Missouri River. He served as a guide to for Fremont on three expeditions for a sum of $100 per month. These expeditions found the Oregon Trail and opened to west for the settlers who followed.

First expedition, 1842

In 1842, during the first expedition, Carson guided Frémont across the Oregon Trail to South Pass, Wyoming. The purpose of this expedition was to map and describe the Oregon Trail as far as South Pass. It is during this trip, that the two men produced a guidebook, maps, and other paraphernalia would be printed for westward-bound migrants and settlers. After the completion of the five-month expedition, Frémont wrote his government reports, which made Carson’s name known across the United States, and spurred a migration of settlers westward to Oregon via the Oregon Trail.

Second expedition, 1843

In 1843, Carson agreed to join Frémont’s again during his second expedition into the west. Carson guided Frémont across part of the Oregon Trail to the Columbia River in Oregon. The purpose of the expedition was to map and describe the Oregon Trail from South Pass, Wyoming, to the Columbia River. They also ventrured towards the Great Salt Lake in Utah, using a rubber raft to navigate the waters.

On the way to California, the party is held up during bad weather in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Fortunately, Carson’s good judgement and his skills as a guide and they found some American settlers who fed them. The expedition turned towards California. This ventures is illegal, at the time, and dangerous because California was Mexican territory.

During the expedition, the expedition arrive in the Mojave Desert. His party met a Mexican man and boy, who informed Carson that Native Americans had ambushed their party. The Native Americans killed the men, and the women are staked to the ground, sexually mutilated, and killed. The murderers then stole the Mexicans’ 30 horses. Carson and a mountain man friend, Alexis Godey, went after the murderers. It took the two men, two days to find the culprits. The pair rushed into their camp and killed and scalped two of the murderers. The horses were recovered and returned to the Mexican man and boy. This act brought Carson even greater reputation and confirmed his status as a western hero in the eyes of the American people.

The Mexican government ordered Frémont to leave. Frémont returned to Washington, DC and filed his reports. He but did not mention the California trip. The government liked his reports but ignored his illegal trip into Mexico. Frémont was made a captain. The newspapers nicknamed Fremont, “The Pathfinder.”

Third expedition, 1845

In 1845, Carson lead Frémont on a third expedition. Leaving Westport Landing, Missouri, they crossed the Rockies, passed the Great Salt Lake, and down the Humboldt River to the Sierra Nevada of California and Oregon. The third expedition is more political in nature. Frémont may have been working under secret government orders. US President Polk wanted Alta California, which includes parts of California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah and parts of Wyoming.

Once in California, Frémont set out to rouse American settlers into a patriotic fervor. The Mexican General Jose Castro at Monterey ordered him to leave. On Gavilan Mountain, Frémont erected a makeshift fort and raised the American Flag in defiance to these orders. While in Oregon, while camped near Klamath Lake, a messenger from Washington, DC, caught up with Fremont and made it clear that Polk wanted California.

On 30 March 1846, while traveling north along the Sacramento Valley, Fremont’s expedition met a group of Americans Settlers. The settlers claimed that a band of Native Americans was planning to attack them. Frémont’s party set about searching for Native Americans. On April 5 1846, Frémont’s party spotted a Wintu village and launched a vicious attack, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 120 to 300 men, women, and children and the displacement of many more. This act of savagery became known as the Sacramento River massacre. Carson, later stated that “It was a perfect butchery.

Army

Kit Carson accepted a commission as a colonel in the U.S. Army in 1861, Carson fought against Native American and Confederate forces in several actions.

His fame was then at its height,… and I was very anxious to see a man who had achieved such feats of daring among the wild animals of the Rocky Mountains, and still wilder Indians of the plains…. I cannot express my surprise at beholding such a small, stoop-shouldered man, with reddish hair, freckled face, soft blue eyes, and nothing to indicate extraordinary courage or daring. He spoke but little and answered questions in monosyllables.

Northern Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman

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