March 19, 1970, the X-24 series of lifting bodies, a joint NASA/USAF project, was designed to investigate flight characteristics within the atmosphere from high altitude supersonic speeds to landing, and to prove the feasibility of using lifting bodies for return from space. They are wingless aero spacecraft which derive lift from their body contours and aerodynamic control surfaces.

They are designed to be launched into space by rocket boosters to ferry crews and supplies to space stations. Upon reentry into the atmosphere, they can be maneuvered to a landing site. The X-24A made its first powered flight on  It was carried aloft and released by a B-52. Upon release, the X-24A pilot ignited the rocket engine which boosted the lifting body to its maximum speed and altitude; then he maneuvered it to a glide landing on a dry lakebed.