The major research and developments in aeronautics during the late 1950's and 1960's are reviewed descriptively with a minimum of technical content. Topics covered include aeronautical research, aeronautics in NASA, The National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, the X-15 Research Airplane, variable-sweep wing design, the Supersonic Transport (SST), hypersonic flight, today's aircraft, helicopters and V/STOL aircraft, research for spacecraft, air-breathing power plants, and reduction of engine noise. Many photographs and illustrations are utilized. (PR)