NASA went off script with the latest test of ‘boomless’ X-59 supersonic plane
- NASA is set to begin flight testing of its X-59 ‘boomless’ aircraft
- It’s testing if supersonic flight can happen with no sonic boom
- Boom has already proved it is possible with its XB-1 prototype
Published on Apr 06, 2025 at 4:49 AM (UTC+4)
by Henry Kelsall
Last updated on Apr 01, 2025 at 9:40 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones
NASA has gone off script, testing its new X-59 experimental aircraft as it prepares for its first-ever flight and paving the way for the Overture supersonic airliner.
The aircraft, designed to test whether quiet supersonic flight over land is possible, is ahead of schedule when it comes to testing its various systems.
The program has been underway since 2016, and as mentioned, it may aid American company Boom in the development of its Overture supersonic airliner.
NASA and its partner Lockheed Martin are hoping its X-59 will finally get off the ground in 2025 and potentially pave the way for overland supersonic commercial air travel.
DISCOVER OUR SUPERCAR AUCTION SITE – View live auctions on SBX Cars
The X-59 is the backbone of a NASA test program
The program utilizing the X-59 aircraft is the Quiet Supersonic Technology (QueSST) program.
If successful, the program will prove that overland civilian supersonic flight is possible without the disruptive sonic boom.
The sonic boom is what ruined the Concorde’s chances of doing the same.
Tests in the 1960s proved it would become a major nuisance for residents below the flight path.
A test in Oklahoma City in the ’60s showed that nobody would tolerate daily sonic boom disruption.
The NASA project is moving into the final stages
It and Lockheed Martin have gone off-script thanks to the earlier testing of many of its systems.
NASA’s research could prove very useful for Boom and its supersonic venture.
Boom’s Overture may benefit from NASA’s research
Boom is currently developing a ‘son of Concorde’, which is its Overture supersonic airliner.
Designed to fly at Mach 1.7 (1,122mph), the Overture could be the world’s first supersonic airliner not to create a sonic boom.
Testing for the American airliner has already started well.
Its XB-1 prototype has not only broken the sound barrier, but done so without the dreaded bang.
NASA’s X-59 doing the same would prove that quiet supersonic travel is no longer a dream.
The result could be that commercial aviation is suddenly revolutionized.
The General Electric F414-GE-100 engine in the X-59 will propel the aircraft to a top speed of Mach 1.4 (925mph).
Boom’s testing showed there was no audible sonic boom from the XB-1.
NASA also predicted its aircraft would make a boom no louder than a car door slamming.
Maybe one day we will be roaring across the Atlantic in just three hours for the first time since 2003.
DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie
Henry is a content writer with nearly ten years experience, having written for various publications since 2017. Qualifying with a Sports Journalism degree from Staffordshire University, Henry loves all things automotive but has a particular soft spot for classic Japanese cars and anything Lancia. He also has a curious passion for steam locomotives.
