Space History Photo: Sperry M-1 Messenger

A researcher considers the first full-scale airplane tested in the Propeller Research Tunnel. CREDIT: NACA. View full size image

In this historical photo from the U.S. space agency, a Langley researcher ponders the future, in mid-1927, of the Sperry M-1 Messenger, the first full-scale airplane tested in the Propeller Research Tunnel. Standing in the exit cone is Elton W. Miller, Max M. Munk's successor as chief of aerodynamics.

The National Advisory Committe on Aeronautics (NACA) was a precursor to NASA. NACA was created by Congress in 1915.

Each weekday, SPACE.com looks back at the history of spaceflight through photos (archive).