The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has unveiled the world’s first quiet supersonic jet. The jet, dubbed “Son of Concorde”, took almost 10 years to build and completed its first test flight on Tuesday, October 28, 20225.
aircraftThe supersonic jet, developed by Lockheed Martin for NASA, is officially known as the X-59, a 100-foot aircraft costing $247 million. It took off for the first time from Palmdale Regional Airport and landed back safely at NASA’s Armstrong Research Center after nearly an hour in the air.
The jet traveled at a peak altitude of 12,000 feet, much lower than a commercial airplane. However, experts are hopeful that it will soon fly at 55,000 feet altitude.
The flying vehicle has a top speed of 925 mph meaning that it can travel from New York to London in just four hours.
Lockhood Martin appeared thrilled after the first successful flight of their product.
The vice president and general manager at the company’s Skunk Works division, OJ Sanchez, said, “we are proud to be at the forefront of quiet supersonic technology development,” adding, “the aircraft is a testament to the innovation and expertise of our joint team.”
Despite its successful flight, there were some drawbacks as the single engine jet only reached the speed of 230mph.
However, experts and developers are hopeful that future test flights, after “expanding the X-59’s flight envelope,” will help it reach its top speed of 925 mph.
