2-860-790 - Heritage Space/Heritage Images

X-48B remotely piloted aircraft, USA, 2010. NASA engineer Gary Cosentino prepares the X-48B for flight. Researchers used the remotely piloted subscale X-48 hybrid/blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft to explore concepts for cleaner, quieter commercial air travel. A two-phase technology demonstration research effort supported NASA's goals of reduced fuel consumption, emissions, and noise.