NASA 008
For the gouge on 008, we turn to aerospace historian and author Michelle Evans:
"NB-52B Stratofortress, Serial Number 52-0008.
"This early model B-52 was used throughout its long operational life as a test bed for numerous programs supporting the advancement of spaceflight. Most notable was as the mother ship for 106 of the 199 flights of the X-15 hypersonic research aircraft, but also for the lifting body program, Space Shuttle research, Pegasus satellite launcher, and another hypersonic research craft: the X-43.
"There were two B-52s originally in service for NASA, but with the retirement of S/N 52-0003, "Balls 8" as it was affectionately known, became the workhorse for many decades. With its first flight in 1955, it officially was received by the NACA in May 1958 (NACA became NASA on October 1, 1958). "Balls 8" was in service for a total of 49 years before being retired on December 17, 2004 (the 101st anniversary of the first flight by the Wright Brothers). This was the oldest flying B-52 at the time of its retirement, with only H model B-52s still in service. As an early model of the Stratofortress, 008 sported the distinctive high tail that was discarded for a truncated tail used by the B-52G and B-52H models. It was also very distinctive in that a large wedge was cut out of the right wing between the fuselage and first engine pod. This was to accommodate the X-15 which was carried under this wing on a special pylon.
"Once known early in the X-15 program as "The Challenger," 008 was the B-52 airframe with the least amount of flying hours on it, due to its research mission over others that served operationally in combat and nuclear deterrent service. It is doubtful any other aircraft will ever equal or exceed its contribution to aerospace history."
For more insight into the aerospace history of the Mojave area, particularly the X-15 program and some superb photographs, please visit Ms. Evans' website.