Acquired August 16th April 2026
Collection Number TSM-292
Developed by Northrop Corporation, the T-38 Talon became the world’s first supersonic trainer and remains one of the most important aircraft in aviation training. Its performance and handling make it ideal for preparing pilots and astronauts for the demands of high-speed, high-stakes environments.
N910NA – Training Astronauts for Spaceflight
Built in 1965 as a T-38A (S/N 65-10352), this aircraft was transferred to NASA in 1978 during a pivotal era in human spaceflight. It was later upgraded to the T-38N configuration, receiving modern avionics and radar to extend its service life and capability.
Operating from Ellington Field near Johnson Space Center, N910NA played a vital role in astronaut training and transport missions between Houston and Cape Canaveral.
For astronauts, the T-38 is essential. It builds the reflexes, awareness, and discipline required for space missions. Long before launch, astronauts train in jets like this.