X48Bs

The X48B, also known as the X-48B Blended Wing Body (BWB), was an experimental unmanned aerial vehicle developed by NASA and Boeing. Its primary purpose was to test the aerodynamic characteristics and flight control challenges of the blended wing body design. This innovative configuration features a thick, flattened fuselage that merges seamlessly with the wings, creating a lifting body shape that generates lift across its entire surface.

The X48B program began in the early 2000s, with the first flight occurring in 2007. The aircraft was a sub-scale demonstrator, with a wingspan of approximately 20 feet. Its design was intended to explore the potential for a more fuel-efficient and quieter aircraft compared to conventional tube-and-wing designs. The blended wing body concept offers advantages such as reduced drag and increased internal volume for fuel or payload.

During its test flights, the X48B gathered valuable data on the low-speed handling qualities and control issues associated with the BWB configuration. The aircraft was remotely piloted from a ground control station, and its flight envelope was gradually expanded to explore a range of aerodynamic conditions. The program concluded in 2010 after successfully completing its flight test objectives, providing crucial insights for future aircraft design. While the X48B itself was a research platform, the data it generated continues to inform the development of potentially revolutionary aircraft concepts.