![](https://s3images.coroflot.com/user_files/individual_files/399881_kqwtd_qhuyxdt3g2oarst_sgf.jpg)
![](https://s3images.coroflot.com/user_files/individual_files/399881_prp9hcn3fkl_fneyytvtk0tbt.jpg)
![](https://s3images.coroflot.com/user_files/individual_files/399881_nyw_q56zor_8xr3y_t2zdvpe5.jpg)
To counter the heating effects of such friction and speed, a cooling system was invented by NASA engineers. It's called LPM (Long Penetration Mode). It involves injecting compressed air along the leading edge of all the aircraft (hence it's shape, wIth one long continuous edge) and thus cooling its surfaces. Also, the aircraft features retractable fins that hide away during the high friction portion of the journey.
To accommodate the LPM cooling system, the aircraft required a continuous leading edge. Thus its V shape.
![](https://s3images.coroflot.com/user_files/individual_files/399881__njjl7klxvhwaq8kwt9apirtz.jpg)
The side view shows a clear inspiration in nature, falcons in flight have a very similar shape.
![](https://s3images.coroflot.com/user_files/individual_files/399881_fidne0nwvts_ayqklucdodsbo.jpg)
Here the retractable fins are seen hidden away and the front canopy closed up so as to withstand the tremendous heat and friction that comes with high speeds.
![](https://s3images.coroflot.com/user_files/individual_files/399881_qi4ixrn67agvmq5xw3jiowcaq.jpg)
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