1956

From The Space Library

Research on tungsten nuclear rocket propulsion systems initiated by NACA Lewis Laboratory, and other feasible systems for practical nuclear rocket systems, such as 1958 concept of coaxial jet gaseous reactor, followed.

SAM and the Aeromedical Field Laboratory at Holloman carried out studies of subgravity conditions in swimming pool experiments.

NACA Lewis Research Laboratory completed research and development on new concepts of ramjet engine performance at altitude, increasing performance of Navaho engine experimentally approximately 40 percent and also contributing to Bomarc engine.

Field-effect transistor and the spacistor, which extended power and high-frequency capabilities of transistors were developed.

Pilotless Aircraft Research Division (PARD) of NACA Langley Aeronautical Laboratory completed solid-propellant, rocket-design studies leading to an improved Deacon rocket motor called the Cajun.

SAM's Department of Microbiology began micro-organism behavior studies in a "Mars Chamber," with a simulated Martian environment.

NACA Langley's Structures Research Division initiated electric arc-powered jets work, using DC and AC current and liquid nitrogen, liquid air and aqueous air jets. On December 19, first successful use of AC arc jet using gaseous air was performed. Twenty-four arc tunnels were subsequently developed and extensively used on many materials and structures research problems associated with reentry of bodies into the atmosphere.

Early 1956: Production of the J47 turbojet engine completed by GE, notable powerplant of B-47, F86D (also E, F, K and L models), and F5-2.

1956 Forty-second Annual Report of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics