Earlier details on this thread of Newquay’s possible involvement in Virgin Galactic’s space rocket programme, especially those relating to the B747 launch aircraft, reminded me of an interesting chat I had at the airfield in 1976 with the then boss - Group Captain Harry Archer. He was explaining the principles of airborne launching of small fast aircraft from bigger slower ones as I admired a large framed picture hanging in his office showing aircrew and aircraft associated with the 1960’s American X15 project. He was on loan in the USA at the time and flew the B52 launch aircraft so was a genuine expert on the subject. I considered myself fortunate to be in his company and hear of his experiences. Also in the superb picture was the X15 pilot, a young Neil Armstrong.
I’ve always remembered our short but fascinating conversation and now find it quite amazing that although rather tenuous, the link between St Mawgan/Newquay and air launched vehicles goes back over 40 years! Happy days!
Regards….Paul