NASA has successfully completed the first full burn test of its X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft at the Skunk Works facility in California. The test, conducted on December 12, marked a major milestone for the project as it progresses towards full flight testing.
The test involved the engine’s afterburner component, which is essential for achieving supersonic speeds. According to NASA, the test operated within expected temperature limits and validated the team’s expectations for the afterburner’s performance with other subsystems.
This achievement comes just over a month after the X-59’s first-ever test in October, which also took place at Skunk Works. The project has made significant progress since its announcement in 2023, despite some delays.
The X-59 features an engine that delivers around 22,000 pounds of thrust, capable of pushing the aircraft to Mach 1.4 at approximately 55,000 feet. The engine’s design helps reduce noise generated by supersonic flight, which is critical for the Quesst mission aiming to reduce sonic booms.
Successful tests like this one will help refine the X-59’s design and identify potential issues. NASA plans to conduct aluminum bird testing, taxi tests, and eventually first flight testing in 2025. If successful, the X-59 could pave the way for supersonic aircraft to operate over populated areas, resurrecting a transport method from its retirement with the Concorde.
The Quesst mission collaborates with commercial partners to reduce long-distance flight times across the United States and globally. The team hopes to lift current bans on commercial supersonic flight over the continental US by understanding public perception of sonic booms.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/x-59-nasa-jet-hits-102256566.html