NASA's experimental X-59 jet breaks sound barrier for 1st time in step toward 'quiet supersonic' technology
NASA and Lockheed Martin's experimental X-59 aircraft has broken the sound barrier, achieving a speed of Mach 1.1. The feat could set the stage for "quiet" supersonic flight....
News Desk
Staff Writer
Published
Jun 14, 2026
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Yahoo
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AI Insight:This breakthrough represents a crucial step toward making supersonic flight more environmentally friendly and less disruptive to communities.
NASA and Lockheed Martin's experimental X-59 aircraft has successfully broken the sound barrier, reaching a speed of Mach 1.1 in a significant milestone for the development of 'quiet supersonic' technology. The X-59, designed to reduce sonic booms and minimize the impact of supersonic flight on communities, is an essential component of NASA's X-59 QueSST program. This innovative aircraft features a unique, curved design that helps to dissipate the shockwaves generated by supersonic flight, producing a significantly reduced sonic boom. The successful test of the X-59's supersonic capabilities marks a major achievement in the pursuit of more sustainable and community-friendly supersonic flight, with potential applications in both military and commercial aviation.