NASA's X-59 "frankenjet" tests supersonic flight without the sonic boom
Summary
NASA is testing a new airplane called the X-59 designed to fly faster than sound without making loud sonic booms. Instead, the X-59 produces a softer sound like a quiet thump, which could allow supersonic planes to fly over land without causing noise disturbances.Key Facts
- NASA’s X-59, built with Lockheed Martin, first flew late last year and has started supersonic test flights.
- The plane's shape, including a long nose and engine placement, is designed to reduce shockwaves that cause loud sonic booms.
- The sound from the X-59 at supersonic speeds is expected to be as quiet as a car door closing 20 feet away.
- NASA plans to take the X-59 across the U.S. to gather public feedback on the quieter noise it makes.
- The U.S. has banned supersonic flight over land since 1973 due to loud noise complaints from earlier military tests.
- New legislation may allow overland supersonic travel if tests confirm it can be made quiet enough.
- Challenges remain, such as high fuel use, before commercial quiet supersonic flights become realistic.
- The X-59 is notable for having no front window and a unique “frankenjet” design made to focus on noise reduction.
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