The D-558-2 Skyrocket was a rocket-powered aircraft developed by Douglas Aircraft Company in the late 1940s. It was designed to test flight characteristics at transonic speeds, specifically to gather data for the development of future supersonic aircraft. The Skyrocket was notable for its unique design, featuring a fuselage with a pointed nose and swept wings. First flown in 1948, the D-558-2 was part of a series of experimental aircraft funded by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). It achieved significant milestones, including the first manned flight to exceed the speed of sound in level flight, contributing valuable insights to aerodynamics and aircraft design.