This image (captured from animation video) illustrates the X-43A research vehicle alone after separation from the Pegasus booster. (LaRC Photo # EL-2000-00531)

NASA's Hyper-x Program Manager, Vince Rausch talks about the upcoming launch of the X43A vehicle over the Pacific Ocean later this month from his office at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA. Hyper X is a high risk, high payoff program. The flight of the X43 A will demonstrated in flight for the first time, air breathing hypersonic propulsion technology. (Photo by Jeff Caplan)

This image (captured from animation video) illustrates the separation of the X-43A research vehicle from the Pegasus booster. (LaRC Photo # EL-2000-00532)