NASA X-59 Advances Toward Quiet Supersonic Flight with Second Test Phase

Daily Technology

19/03/2026

NASA's X-59 experimental aircraft is preparing for its second flight, a critical step in its mission to enable supersonic travel without the disruptive sonic boom. Following a successful inaugural flight and extensive ground tests, including a recent engine fire-up, the program is now entering a new phase of envelope expansion, methodically pushing the aircraft toward its goal of flying faster than the speed of sound.

A Subsonic Debut and Rigorous Inspection

The X-59, developed in partnership with Lockheed Martin, first took to the skies in a foundational test flight. This initial trial was conducted at purely subsonic speeds, reaching 230 miles per hour at a maximum altitude of 12,000 feet. The primary objective was to validate the aircraft's basic airworthiness. Following the one-hour flight, engineering teams conducted a comprehensive inspection, which involved disassembling major components, including the engine, a section of the tail, and over 70 panels, to ensure the vehicle's integrity and readiness for more demanding tests.

The Path to Mach 1.4

The upcoming series of flights marks the beginning of the envelope expansion process, where the aircraft's performance limits are gradually increased. While the first flight was a subsonic trial, the ultimate mission parameter for the X-59 is to achieve a speed of approximately 925 miles per hour (Mach 1.4) at an altitude of 55,000 feet. The second flight will initiate this progression, starting from a known safe condition from the first flight before incrementally increasing speed and altitude. This methodical approach ensures safety while collecting crucial performance data at each step of the way.

Future Flights and Community Feedback

NASA test pilot Jim “Clue” Less will be at the controls for the second flight, taking off from Edwards Air Force Base. An F/A-18 chase plane will fly alongside to observe and record the X-59's performance. As the tests progress toward supersonic speeds, the project will move into its final and most significant phase. The ultimate goal is to fly the X-59 over selected communities across the United States. This will allow NASA to gather data on how the public perceives the aircraft's sound signature, which is designed to be a quiet "sonic thump" rather than a loud boom. This feedback is essential for potentially informing new regulations regarding overland commercial supersonic flight.

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