Photos: NASA's DC-X Rocket for Vertical Space Launches & Landings

Masten Space System's Xaero Launch Vehicle

Masten Space Systems

Two decades after NASA's DC-X vertical landing rocket tests, several private companies are experimenting with the technology. Here, the suborbital Xaero launch vehicle built by Masten Space Systems performs a tethered flight test on Feb. 21, 2011 in this still from a video by Masten officials.

Armadillo's Dalek Spacecraft

Armadillo

Two decades after NASA's DC-X vertical landing rocket tests, several private companies are experimenting with the technology. Here, a test shot of Dalek, under development by Armadillo Aerospace of Rockwall, Texas, lifting off from New Mexico’s Spaceport America.

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