Update on SpaceShipOne
SpaceShipOne is the first piloted winged aircraft with outboard horizontal tails. Fully understanding the craft’s handling properties through the atmosphere is crucial.
During a glide to Earth after flying to the edge of space, the vehicle’s tail section flips up to a “feathered” position — moved to a 65-degree angle to the main body. This critical positioning of the hinged tail section slows the craft to allow a safe and sound glide down to the airstrip.
Source: Space.com