Discusses the history of the X-15 flight program, how its results yielded information valuable for later space programs, and the experiences of the program's twelve test pilots.

Includes index.

Introduction: The Men -- Flight 3-65-97 -- The Ingredients -- The Machine -- The Operation -- The Program -- Program Phases -- Demonstration Phase (1959-1962) -- In the Contrails of Giants (1962-1964) -- Trial by Fire and Water (1964-1968) -- Results and Unanticipated Problems -- Triumph and Tragedy -- Toward Mach 7 -- The X-15A-2 -- Sometimes the Bull Wins -- Flight Logs -- Pilot Statistics -- Aircraft Availability -- Typical X-15 Flight Plan.