The X-8C Aerobee was a single-stage, unguided, spin-stabilized, liquid-propellant rocket with a solid-fuel booster.
The X-8 program was conceived in January of 1946 in order to fulfill a requirement for an upper air research vehicle/sounding rocket with a satisfactory parachute recovery system for the nose cone, payload, and main body. These objectives were an integral part of the United States Air Force's "Program for Geophysical Research and Development," and "Upper Air Research Vehicles," dated November 3, 1949; August 7, 1951; and February 8, 1952, respectively
At least 66 vehicles were built under the X-8 designation. The first 33 USAF Air Research and Development Command X-8/Aerobees were launches from Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. (On May 21, 1952, one of these Aerobees was the first rocket to successfully launch monkeys and mice into space and return them safely).
Documentation indicates at least two improved X-8C's, with an updated booster and increased internal tankage for additional fuel, were delivered to the U.S. Air Force. Of the two X-8C's, this one, originally designated RTV-A-1c, was the only one to be launched. The launch took place at Holloman AFB on February 29, 1952.
