Two decades after the last civilian supersonic jet, NASA and Lockheed Martin have unveiled a new experimental aircraft that aims to tackle the problematic sonic boom issue hindering faster-than-sound travel.
Noisy Booms Troubled Historic Supersonic Jets:The powerful sonic boom shockwaves released by supersonic flight have disturbed people on the ground and even damaged structures when jets fly low. But noise was not the sole factor for discontinuing iconic civilian jets like the Concorde. Through flight tests that began in 2022, NASA hopes to demonstrate overland supersonic need not always produce intolerable noise. Public response surveys will share results with regulators to make the case for allowing faster civilian air travel. If the X-59 fulfils its quieter supersonic travel premise, public sentiment along with supportive policies couldenable reviving faster-than-sound passenger jets while addressing earlier concerns.
