Those interested in rare project and prototype aircraft should check
RetroMechanix.com, which currently features heavily illustrated articles on the contenders for the US Navy OS-130 Day Fighter competition of 1953, which ultimately yielded the F8U Crusader and F5D Skylancer. It features over 500 rare high resolution photos, drawings and artist's impressions, all available to freely view and download. Subjects covered include the Convair Carrier Based F2Y, Douglas Model 652, Grumman Design 97, Lockheed L-242 Navalized Starfighter, McDonnell Model 90/91, North American OS-130 Class VF Day Fighter, Northrop Model N-94, TEMCO Model 31, Vought V-383/V-384, and Vought XF8U-1 Mock-up Inspection. All articles are based on primary documents found in the US National Archives and the majority is previously unpublished.
We've also added a new article on a proposal known as the
"Sapphire powered Grumman Cougar" dating from the early 1950's:
Going forward, we will be regularly updating the site several times per week with new articles on various aerospace studies, prototypes, modifications, etc. Future subjects include nuclear-powered bombers, bizarre VTOL aircraft, early missiles and drones, etc. Please check back regularly, add us to your RSS feed, etc.
Thank you for your consideration; I hope you enjoy the site and visit frequently.
Best Regards,
Jared Zichek
Editor, RetroMechanix.com