First Independently Developed Jet Breaks the Sound Barrier Over California Desert
The XB-1 aircraft, developed by Boom Supersonic, has become the first independently developed jet to break the sound barrier. The successful flight, which reached Mach 1.05 within 11 minutes of takeoff, took place over the Mojave Desert in California. This milestone is a step toward reviving supersonic passenger air travel, a field that was largely dormant since the Concorde’s retirement. Boom is now focusing on the Overture airliner, which aims to transport passengers at twice the speed of current commercial flights. The aircraft’s breakthrough is seen as a significant advancement in aviation technology, with the potential to offer faster, sustainable travel.
On Tuesday, a sleek white aircraft made history as the first independently developed jet to break the sound barrier, soaring high above the Mojave Desert and thrilling a crowd of onlookers. The XB-1 aircraft reached Mach 1.05 within just 11 minutes of takeoff, as confirmed by Boom Supersonic and live footage of the test flight.
The milestone flight took place at Mojave Air & Space Port in California, marking a significant step in Boom’s mission to revive supersonic passenger travel, a venture that ceased with the retirement of the Anglo-French Concorde more than two decades ago. Boom’s next focus is on the Overture airliner, which aims to carry up to 80 passengers at roughly twice the speed of current commercial airliners.
“XB-1’s supersonic flight demonstrates that the technology for passenger supersonic flight has arrived,” said Blake Scholl, Boom’s founder and CEO. “A small group of dedicated engineers has achieved what once required governments and billions of dollars.”
The XB-1, which made its first flight in March, is constructed almost entirely from lightweight carbon fiber and utilizes an augmented reality vision system to aid with landing, addressing the challenges posed by its long nose and high-angle approach.
“The future of aviation is here and now,” commented Amy Marino Spowart, president and CEO of the National Aeronautic Association.
While Boom is not alone in its pursuit of supersonic passenger flight, any new service will face challenges similar to those encountered by the Concorde, especially the issue of sonic booms. These occur when aircraft exceed the speed of sound, creating shockwaves that can be heard on the ground.
The XB-1’s test flight took place in the same airspace where, in 1947, Charles “Chuck” Yeager became the first person to break the sound barrier, piloting the Bell X-1 rocket plane.
Disclaimer
The information presented is based on publicly available sources regarding the test flight of the XB-1 aircraft by Boom Supersonic. The claims of achieving supersonic flight and technological advancements are attributed to the company and associated experts. Readers are encouraged to verify any specific details or claims made by the company or officials.
source : phys.org