Lockheed Saturn
In today's article we will explore the fascinating history of Lockheed Saturn and its impact on modern society. From its inception to the present, Lockheed Saturn has played a crucial role in various aspects of everyday life, influencing entire generations and leaving an indelible mark on culture. Through detailed analysis, we will examine the different aspects that make Lockheed Saturn such a relevant and intriguing topic, from its origins to its relevance in today's world. In addition, we will explore its impact in areas as diverse as technology, politics, health and education, offering a comprehensive view of its importance in the contemporary context.
| Model 75 Saturn | |
|---|---|
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| |
| Role | Airliner |
| National origin | United States of America |
| Manufacturer | Lockheed Corporation |
| First flight | June 17, 1946 |
| Status | Prototype only |
| Number built | 2 |
The Lockheed Model 75 Saturn was a small, short-route commercial aircraft produced by the Lockheed Corporation in the mid-1940s. Lockheed announced the project on November 19, 1944. The design team, led by Don Palmer, created a high-wing, twin-engine monoplane with 14 seats and a top speed of 228 mph (367 km/h). Lockheed touted the Saturn's capability to take on passengers and cargo without ramps or stairs, making it suitable for small-town airports with limited facilities.
Tony LeVier piloted the first flight on June 17, 1946. Lockheed had received 500 conditional orders for this aircraft, priced at $85,000 each. But, by the time the design was completed, the selling price had risen to $100,000 and these orders had been cancelled, with war surplus C-47s filling the same market at a quarter the price. Lockheed lost $6 million from the development of the two prototypes, which were scrapped in 1948.
Specifications
Data from Francillon, p. 281
General characteristics
- Crew: Two
- Capacity: 14 passengers
- Length: 56 ft 6 in (15.69 m)
- Wingspan: 74 ft 0 in (22.56 m)
- Height: 19 ft 10 in (6.05 m)
- Wing area: 502 sq ft (46.6 m2)
- Empty weight: 11,361 lb (5,153 kg)
- Gross weight: 16,000 lb (7,257 kg)
- Powerplant: 2 × Wright 744C-7BA-1 seven cylinder radial engine, 700 hp (522 kW) each
Performance
- Maximum speed: 198 kn (228 mph, 367 km/h) at sea level
- Cruise speed: 163 kn (187 mph, 301 km/h)
- Range: 522 nmi (600 mi, 965 km)
- Service ceiling: 26,500 ft (8,075 m)
- Rate of climb: 1,325 ft/min (6.7 m/s)
References
- Notes
- ^ United Press, “Lockheed Will Build Short-Haul Transport”, The San Bernardino Daily Sun, San Bernardino, California, Monday 20 November 1944, Volume 51, page 1.
- ^ "Pinup - Lockheed Saturn", January 1946, Popular Science bottom of page 96 with good photo on following page
- Bibliography
- Boyne, Walter J., Beyond the Horizons: The Lockheed Story. St. Martin's Press: New York, 1998.
- Francillon, René J. Lockheed Aircraft since 1913. London:Putnam, 1982. ISBN 0-370-30329-6