NASA and Lockheed Martin officially unveil the X-59 quiet supersonic aircraft, marking a significant achievement in aeronautics. The experimental airplane is part of NASA's Quesst mission, aiming to gather data that could revolutionize air travel, paving the way for a new generation of commercial aircraft capable of traveling faster than the speed of sound.
The X-59, developed by NASA and Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, is designed to fly at 1.4 times the speed of sound (925 mph) and generate a quieter sonic thump compared to traditional supersonic aircraft. Its unique shape and technological advancements, including a thin, tapered nose and an innovative eXternal Vision System, enable quiet supersonic flight.
The Quesst mission focuses on providing data to regulators to reconsider rules prohibiting commercial supersonic flight over land. The aircraft's flight tests, set to begin later this year, will include collecting data on the sound the X-59 generates and public perception during flights over selected U.S. cities. NASA plans to share the acquired data with the Federal Aviation Administration and international regulators.
Measuring 99.7 feet in length and 29.5 feet in width, the X-59 is not a prototype but an experimental airplane designed to inform future generations of quiet supersonic aircraft. Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, the prime contractor, hosted the unveiling ceremony in Palmdale, California, highlighting the collaborative effort of scientists, engineers, and production artisans.
Following rollout, the Quesst team will proceed with integrated systems testing, engine runs, and taxi testing before the X-59's first flight. Subsequent flight tests will take place at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, where the aircraft will be based.
The X-59 represents a major step toward achieving quiet commercial supersonic travel over land, with NASA's commitment to sharing technology and data to benefit both U.S. companies and global travelers.
#nasa #nasaplane #nasax9 #nasaupdates #nasasupersonicplane #worldnews
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