The O'Neill PeaPod

Something a bit different today. A genuine aerospace anomaly. The O'Neill PeaPod.

Scanning some slides last night, I came across this, on a slide dated. Google was invoked, and some info did emerge. Here and Here and Here and Here

Pea Pod. (U.S., 1963). Designed and built by Terrence O'neill. Pilot lies in prone position. Wing span 8', length 9'. Payload 220 lbs. Cruise speed 115 mph, landing speed 55 mph. Never actually flown. Would not meet FAR 103 requirements.

and

Pea Pod 1963 = 1pCmwM canard; 35hp Kiekhaefer O-4-35 mounted inside the vertical fin; span: 8'0" length: 9'0" load: 220# v (est): 132/115/55 range (est): 350. This odd ship might best be described as a flying barn door with its angular wing of 1.6 aspect ratio. The pilot had a prone position, with most of his body inside the wing. The plane could be carried atop the family auto. Taxi tests were performed, but it reportedly never flew. POP: 1 [N10T].

...so I've increased the world population of PeaPod photos by...one.  And looks like it existed for at least four years. Fascinating. (And with another 20 slides toscan...who knows.

Bonus - Bed Time !