NASA's X-33

A fuel tank at the nose of NASA's X-33 technology demonstrator, a cost-cutting fully reusable Single-Stage-To-Orbit space vehicle, takes shape at the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, California, April 15, 1999. The 67 foot-long, 278,600 pound, twin engine space vehicle, capable of reaching speeds in excess of mach 15, will lead to the construction of a 127 foot-long, 2,186,000 pound version with seven engines and a 50,000 pound payload capacity called the "VentureStar". NASA hopes the X-33/Venture Star program will break the "cost barrier" to lower launch cost to a fraction of today's prices. (Photo by David McNew)