X-38: the International Space Station's Emergency Vehicle

The X38 was an emergency escape craft designed to carry seven astronauts from the ISS to Earth. It underwent various tests to ensure its aerodynamic efficiency and was to be delivered by a space shuttle. The craft featured a drone parachute and a large parafoil for safe descent. Despite its advanced design, the program was canceled in 2002 due to budget cuts, leaving the ISS reliant on Soyuz spacecraft for evacuations.

What was the primary purpose of the X38 craft?

• To conduct scientific experiments

• To replace the space shuttle

• To serve as an emergency escape vehicle

• To transport cargo to the ISS

Which aircraft was used to carry the X38 for drop tests?

• Boeing 747

• Lockheed C-130

• Modified B52 bomber

• Space Shuttle

How was the X38 designed to slow down from transonic speeds?

• With a drone parachute

• Using rocket boosters

• By deploying landing gear

• Through air brakes

What was the expected duration of the journey from the ISS to Earth using the X38?

• 4 hours

• 2 hours

• 1 hour

• 30 minutes

What spacecraft does the ISS currently rely on for evacuations?

• Dragon

• Soyuz

• Orion

• Starliner