NASA’s X-59 ‘quiet’ supersonic jet passes critical test

NASA has just taken a significant step forward in the development of its quiet supersonic X-59 aircraft.

The jet has recently passed a critical test called the Flight Readiness Review, taking one step forward toward its maiden flight.

This test involved the calculation of safety measures for the general public and the staff.

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NASA’s X-59 clears the first hurdle

The test was conducted by a board of independent experts from various divisions of NASA.

Cathy Bahm, NASA’s Low Boom Flight Demonstrator project manager, said: “It’s not a pass-fail.

“We’ll be getting actions from the board and will work with them to resolve those and work toward the Airworthiness and Flight Safety Review.”

After Concorde, we haven’t had supersonic commercial aircraft.

But now, NASA, in collaboration with Lockheed Martin is working on the X-59 aircraft.

NASA’s dream of a return to supersonic flight

This will be the quietest supersonic jet to be ever made.

While this project is fascinating, this is nothing new for Lockheed Martin.

They recently developed the most advanced helmet for the U.S. Air Force, after all.

This project is part of NASA’s Quesst mission as they work on developing silent commercial aircraft faster than the speed of sound.

What’s Next for NASA’s X-59?

With the successful Flight Readiness Review, the NASA team is more motivated than ever for the upcoming tests.

Chief engineer Jay Brandon said: “The Flight Readiness Review focused on specific aspects of the X-59 team’s work on the aircraft, but also served as an overview and update on the entire project.”

Further, the X-59 team is getting ready for important ground tests like checking the systems and running the engine.

Interestingly, the X-59 uses parts from other planes,

For instance, it uses the landing gear from an Air Force F-16, the cockpit canopy from a NASA T-38 trainer, and the control stick from an Air Force F-117 stealth fighter.

With the bold design of the X-59 supersonic jet and big names like NASA and Lockheed Martin in the game, commercial flights are soon to be revolutionized.

Supersonic travel might not just be a distant dream in the not-too-distant future.