by NASA

“ The final flight test plan will not be approved until the final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision are issued.
The goal of the X-34 and NASA’s other advanced technology demonstrators is to dramatically increase reliability and lower the cost of putting payloads into space.
By reducing the transportation cost, a commercial reusable launch vehicle would create new opportunities for scientific, commercial and educational endeavors while significantly improving U.S. economic competitiveness in the world launch market. ”

“ The 50-month contract includes three flight test vehicles. NASA and other government agencies are spending an additional $16 million for wind tunnel testing, thermal protection systems, vehicle health monitoring, ground support, engine testing and flight support. Orbital has invested $10 million in corporate funds for modifications to its L-1011 carrier aircraft to accommodate the X-34. NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala., manages the program. ”

“ The government team, led by the Marshall Center, and their responsibilities, include: NASA’s Langley Research Center, Hampton, Va., wind tunnel testing and analysis; NASA’s Ames Research Center, Mountain View, Calif., rigid thermal protection system ”