Since the 1970s, the noise generated by aircraft breaking the sound barrier has led to a ban on commercial supersonic flights over urban areas. However, this limitation may be nearing its end with the introduction of NASA’s X-59 supersonic aircraft.
X-59 supersonic aircraft promises noiseless flights
Earlier this year NASA unveiled the X-59 Questst, a supersonic aircraft designed to minimize noise, at an event held in Palmdale, California, at the facilities of Lockheed Martin, the company in charge of the development of this project.
The challenge posed by the X-59 is to reach supersonic speeds while emitting an almost inaudible sound, thanks to its innovative design that seeks to transform the deafening sonic boom into a faint murmur.
El X-59 está a punto de iniciar vuelos de prueba sobre zonas habitadas. Fuente: NASA
In order to validate this ambition, NASA plans to conduct experimental flights over inhabited areas during 2024 with the X-59 to collect data on the population’s perception of noise.
The information gathered will be shared with both U.S. and international regulatory agencies in hopes of modifying regulations that currently prohibit commercial supersonic flight over land.
If successful in this endeavor, it would open the doors to new commercial markets for both freight and passenger transportation, thanks to the ability to fly at the speed of sound without generating significant noise.
More details on the X-59 Questst
The X-59 Questst distinguishes itself as an unparalleled experimental prototype. This supersonic aircraft incorporates cutting-edge technologies and components derived from various military aircraft models, such as the F-16 landing gear and F-15 life support system, as well as featuring the F18 Super Hornet engine, capable of generating 22,000 pounds of thrust.
Likewise, the X-59 is designed for fly at altitudes of over 18,000 meters and reach speeds close to 1,500 km/h (6,000 mph)The noise generated is comparable to that of closing a car door, about 75 decibels, instead of the sonic boom characteristic of supersonic aircraft.
This aircraft, with a length of 29 meters and a wingspan of 9 meters, is designed to be piloted by a single person.
It is important to note that the potential revolution in commercial aviation represented by the X-59 not only promises to reduce the acoustic impact of supersonic flight, but could also mean a significant advance in air transport efficiency. By overcoming sound barriers without the resulting noise, the X-59 supersonic aircraft could pave the way for a new generation of faster air travel, connecting the world more efficiently and sustainably.
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Source: huffingtonpost.es
Photo: NASA
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