Jumpy, grainy, dull in contrast and imagery - DOS The air force's X-1 rocket plane, first to exceed speed of sound, goes aloft under own steam. Stubby craft takes off and climbs to 23,000 feet in less than two minutes. Turbocharged Supersonic, Bell X-1 Rocket Plane that soared to 63,000 feet. Piloted by Frank Everest a new American Hero.