NASA's X-59 QueSST : Silent Supersonic Jet

Supersonic flight has long been a dream of aviation enthusiasts. However, commercial supersonic flights have been prohibited over land since the 1970s due to the noise pollution caused by sonic booms.

NASA's X-59 QueSST is a research aircraft designed to change that. The X-59 is designed to fly faster than the speed of sound without creating a sonic boom, or at least a much quieter one. This would allow for commercial supersonic flights over land, which would offer significant benefits in terms of time savings and reduced emissions.

The X-59 has a unique design that helps to reduce the noise of its sonic boom. The nose of the aircraft is shaped like a wedge, which helps to deflect shockwaves away from the ground. The wings of the aircraft are also swept back, which helps to reduce drag and noise.

The X-59 is currently undergoing testing at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in California. The aircraft is expected to begin flight tests in 2023. If the tests are successful, the X-59 could pave the way for the return of commercial supersonic flight.

In addition to reducing the loudness of the sonic boom, the X-59 is also being used to gauge public perception of supersonic flight. The aircraft will be flown over select U.S. communities at a variety of speeds and altitudes. People in these communities will be asked to rate the loudness of the aircraft's sonic boom and their overall perception of the aircraft. This data will be used to help regulators determine whether to allow commercial supersonic flight over land.

The X-59 program is also developing a number of new technologies that could be used to make supersonic flight more efficient and environmentally friendly. These technologies include new engine designs that are more fuel-efficient and new materials that can withstand the high temperatures and pressures of supersonic flight.

The X-59 QueSST is a significant step forward in the development of supersonic flight. If the program is successful, it could pave the way for the return of commercial supersonic travel, which would offer significant benefits in terms of time savings and reduced emissions. Here are some additional details about the X-59:

• The aircraft is 60 feet long and has a wingspan of 50 feet.

• It weighs about 30,000 pounds.

• The cockpit can accommodate one pilot.

• The X-59 is expected to cost about $100 million to develop.

The future of supersonic flight is looking bright thanks to the X-59 QueSST. If the program is successful, it could revolutionize air travel and make it more efficient, environmentally friendly, and accessible to more people.