NASA AD-1
The NASA AD-1 Oblique Wing Research Aircraft
The NASA AD-1 was an experimental project to determine the efficiency of a wing that could be pivoted up to 60 degrees during flight. The plane was developed by experimental aircraft designer Burt Rutan and manufactured by the Ames Industrial Corporation of New York (which has no relation to NASA Ames Research Center at Moffett Field).
During takeoff and landing the wing would remain perpendicular to the fuselage to provide typical aircraft lift and control surfaces. However, during high-speed flight the wing would pivot along the fuselage to reduce drag, which then increased speed, range and fuel efficiency.
The AD-1 flew from NASA’s Dryden (now Armstrong) research facility at Edwards, CA from 1979 to 1982. Over a series of 79 research flights, the AD-1 provided valuable data regarding the aerodynamics of oblique wing aircraft.
Take a look at this Lego AD-1 that a fan designed and built! (Opens in a new tab on the Lego website)
Today’s Schedule 10-5
The Hiller Aviation Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. The museum is closed for Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
Upcoming Events
Hearts and Hangars
Cupid’s touched down for a members-only evening in the hangar! Join us for aviation-inspired Valentine crafts, enjoy sweet chocolate treats, explore the museum during extended hours, and enter a raffle for a special prize!
Starlab
Explore the night sky in a realistic domed simulation. Available on select dates. Additional fees are required.
Kids’ Night Out
Students ages 5-10 join for a fun night of age-appropriate craft, games, museum exploration, flight simulators, and a movie to wind down the night.