| Existing comment:
Convair B-58 Escape Capsule (1956). The B-58 Hustler was the world's first supersonic bomber. Ejection seats would have been unsatisfactory for the 3-man crew at Mach 2 and high altitude. When ejection was initiated, arms at the base pulled in the crewman's legs and a 3-section clamshell unfolded from the hood, completely enclosing him. Compressed air provided an adequate atmosphere. The capsule was fired out by a rocket and descended via parachute. It could float if it landed in water. |