
'Sounds Like Thunder, Flies Like a Ghost': NASA's 19-Inch X-59 Just Hit Mach 1.4 in a Shocking Japan Supersonic Test
and successfully tested a scale model of the X-59 at Mach 1.4, gathering critical data for supersonic travel. ✈️ The 19-inch model was tested in a wind tunnel, simulating real-world flight conditions for validating the aircraft's design.
🔊 The X-59 aims to replace the traditional sonic boom with a quieter 'sonic thump' , making overland supersonic flights viable.
, making overland supersonic flights viable. 🌐 The project is part of NASA's Quesst mission, which seeks to revolutionize air travel by proving that quiet supersonic flight is feasible and socially acceptable.
In an era where innovation is the cornerstone of progress, NASA and the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are collaboratively pushing the boundaries of aviation technology. Recently, in Chofu, Japan, a 1.62% scale model of the X-59 aircraft underwent rigorous testing, reaching astonishing speeds of Mach 1.4 within a compact 3-by-3-foot wind tunnel. This miniature marvel is not just a testament to engineering prowess but a crucial step toward revolutionizing supersonic travel. The data collected from these tests are invaluable, setting the stage for quieter, overland supersonic flights that could redefine air travel as we know it. Tiny Model, Full-Scale Stakes
The X-59 demonstrator, a remarkable feat of engineering, measures an impressive 99.7 feet in length with a wingspan of 29.7 feet. However, the recent tests in the Chofu wind tunnel used a much smaller 19-inch model, representing just 1.62 percent of the actual aircraft. Despite its diminutive size, this model was subjected to airflow conditions matching the aircraft's anticipated cruise speed of Mach 1.4, equivalent to approximately 925 miles per hour. These conditions were crucial for collecting critical experimental data that could validate the aircraft's design.
By comparing the results from these wind-tunnel tests with detailed Computational Fluid Dynamics predictions, NASA aims to confirm how the air will flow over the jet's slender fuselage and long, swept wings. The primary goal is to understand the behavior of shock waves, which, unlike in conventional supersonic aircraft, are designed in the X-59 to separate, resulting in a subtle 'sonic thump' instead of a loud boom. This breakthrough could pave the way for overland supersonic passenger flights, making them viable and socially acceptable.
Terrifying Signal From Deep Space: New Detection Shows Traits Too Precise to Be Natural, Forcing Scientists to Reconsider Everything Milestones on the Road to First Flight
The recent wind-tunnel experiments are just one step in a series of significant milestones for the X-59 program. In December 2024, a critical engine-burning test was successfully completed at Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California. This test marked the first time the integrated propulsion system was pushed to full power, underscoring the readiness of the X-59 for real-world conditions. Earlier, in October 2024, a preliminary engine shakedown ensured all systems were leak-free and operational.
Progress continued with high-fidelity simulations in May 2025, which rigorously tested the aircraft's flight computer and subsystems. These simulations ensured that the sensors, control surfaces, and redundant computers could communicate seamlessly, simulating the high-altitude, high-speed missions the X-59 is designed for. As part of NASA's Quesst mission, these efforts are geared towards proving that quiet supersonic flight is both technically feasible and socially acceptable. Once airborne, the X-59 will perform community overflights across the United States, gathering public feedback on its muted acoustic footprint.
'They Just Rewrote the Future!': FAMU's Mind-Blowing 3D Printing Revolution Sends Shockwaves Through NASA and Could Launch Humanity Into Deep Space Unveiling the Future of Supersonic Travel
The X-59 project represents a significant leap forward in aviation technology. The successful tests of the 19-inch model in Chofu are a critical step toward achieving flights that could potentially reshape air travel. By turning the dreaded boom into a manageable thump, engineers are not only addressing noise pollution but also opening the door to commercial supersonic airliners capable of crossing continents at unprecedented speeds. This innovation could provide future commercial aircraft designers with the tools necessary to revolutionize air travel without disturbing the peace below.
The potential for overland supersonic flight remains high, with the promise of reduced travel times and increased efficiency. The X-59 is at the forefront of this journey, offering a glimpse into a future where lengthy flights become a thing of the past. The data collected from these tests and future community feedback will be instrumental in shaping regulations and guiding the next generation of supersonic aircraft design.
'Space Needs Nuclear Now': This New Global Race to Harness Atomic Power Beyond Earth Is Accelerating Faster Than Expected Data and Feedback: Paving the Path Forward
As the X-59 moves closer to its first flight, the importance of data collection and community feedback cannot be overstated. The data gathered from wind-tunnel tests, combined with real-world overflight assessments, will provide regulators with the information needed to reconsider the current ban on supersonic flight over land. This potential change in policy could have a profound impact on the aviation industry, enabling faster, more efficient travel.
The collaboration between NASA and JAXA exemplifies how international cooperation can drive technological advancements. By harnessing the expertise of both agencies, the X-59 project is poised to make significant contributions to the future of air travel. As we look to the skies, one cannot help but wonder: will the dream of quiet, overland supersonic flight soon become a reality for travelers worldwide?
This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies.
Did you like it? 4.5/5 (21)

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Sustainability Times
3 hours ago
- Sustainability Times
'NASA Sounds the Alarm': Unprecedented Planetary Surge Linked to Unknown Deep-Earth Force Now Spreading at Global Scale
IN A NUTSHELL 🌍 The South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) is a region of weakened magnetic field over South America, impacting space technology. is a region of weakened magnetic field over South America, impacting space technology. 🛰️ Satellites passing through the SAA face risks from high-energy particles , leading to potential system malfunctions. , leading to potential system malfunctions. 🔄 The anomaly is dynamically changing , drifting northwest and splitting into two lobes, increasing hazards for spacecraft. , drifting northwest and splitting into two lobes, increasing hazards for spacecraft. 🔬 NASA utilizes satellite data and core simulations to model the magnetic field's evolution for improved mission planning. The South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) has captured the attention of scientists and researchers worldwide. This peculiar region, characterized by a weakened magnetic field over South America and the South Atlantic Ocean, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for NASA and the global scientific community. As this anomaly evolves, understanding its mechanisms becomes crucial to mitigating potential impacts on space technology and expanding our knowledge of Earth's magnetic dynamics. Let's delve into the complex origins, technological threats, dynamic evolution, and future implications of the SAA. Deep Origins and Complex Mechanisms At the heart of NASA's concerns lies the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA), a geomagnetic phenomenon both captivating and concerning. This immense region is characterized by a significant reduction in magnetic intensity compared to its surroundings. Far from being a mere scientific curiosity, this weakness acts as a breach in our natural protective shield, allowing high-energy solar particles to dangerously approach Earth's surface. The origins of the SAA are intricately linked to the geodynamo, a complex process occurring in Earth's outer core. Here, the movement of molten iron and nickel generates the magnetic field that envelops us. However, this generation is not uniform. Two primary factors contribute to the formation of the SAA: the tilt of Earth's magnetic axis relative to its rotational axis and the influence of a massive dense structure known as the African Large Low Shear Velocity Province, located about 1,800 miles beneath the African continent. These factors disrupt the magnetic field generation in this region, leading to a local polarity reversal within Earth's magnetic field, further weakening the dipole field intensity in this specific area. A Threat to Space Technology This magnetic vulnerability poses significant risks to space technology. Satellites traversing the SAA are exposed to high levels of energetic protons, which can cause single event upsets (SEUs). These incidents can lead to temporary malfunctions, data corruption, or even permanent damage if critical systems are affected. To mitigate these risks, many satellite operators take preventive measures, such as shutting down non-essential systems when passing through the anomaly. Even the International Space Station (ISS) crosses the SAA on each orbit. While its shielding effectively protects astronauts, external instruments remain more vulnerable. Bryan Blair, deputy principal investigator for the GEDI instrument on the ISS, reports occasional 'glitches' and resets, resulting in a few hours of data loss each month. Other missions, like the Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON), also closely monitor the SAA and adjust their operations accordingly. Dynamic Evolution and Challenges The South Atlantic Anomaly is far from static. Recent data, particularly from the ESA's Swarm constellation and historical measurements from NASA's SAMPEX mission, confirm several alarming trends. The anomaly is slowly drifting northwest, expanding in surface area, and, as observed since 2020, beginning to split into two distinct lobes, creating two centers of minimum magnetic intensity. This bifurcation increases the number of hazardous zones for spacecraft and complicates the task of scientists developing predictive models of geomagnetic conditions. Understanding the changing morphology of the SAA is crucial for the safety of current and future satellites. As Terry Sabaka of NASA emphasizes, these developments necessitate continuous monitoring and adaptation in satellite operations to mitigate potential disruptions. Anticipating the Invisible To refine their understanding and predictions, NASA combines satellite data with simulations of Earth's core dynamics. These inputs feed global models like the International Geomagnetic Reference Field (IGRF), which track the evolution of Earth's magnetic field. These models are essential not only for planning space missions but also for gaining a better grasp of our planet's internal structure. The approach resembles weather forecasting but on much longer timescales, allowing scientists to estimate the secular variation—the slow yet persistent changes in the magnetic field over years and decades. While the current evolution of the SAA is unprecedented in the space era, geological records suggest that such anomalies are not exceptional over long timescales. It is important to note that, according to scientists, the current SAA is not an early indicator of a magnetic pole reversal, a natural but rare phenomenon occurring over hundreds of thousands of years. Thus, studying the SAA remains a vital research area, crucial for protecting our orbiting technologies and deepening our understanding of the profound forces driving our planet. As the South Atlantic Anomaly continues to evolve, the scientific community remains vigilant in its efforts to understand and mitigate its impact. With its potential to disrupt satellite operations and influence our understanding of Earth's magnetic field, the SAA poses intriguing questions about the future of our planet's magnetic dynamics. How will these changes shape our technological and scientific pursuits in the years to come? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.3/5 (24)


Sustainability Times
3 days ago
- Sustainability Times
'They Finally Saw It!': James Webb Captures 14 Herculis c, the Mysterious Exoplanet Hidden in Darkness for Over Two Decades
IN A NUTSHELL 🌌 The James Webb Space Telescope has imaged 14 Herculis c, the coldest exoplanet ever captured. has imaged 14 Herculis c, the coldest exoplanet ever captured. 🔭 Located 60 light-years away, this exoplanet challenges our understanding with its unique orbital dynamics . . 🪐 The planet's orbit is highly elliptical, providing insights into planetary evolution and gravitational interactions. and gravitational interactions. 🌍 Webb's observations reveal unusual atmospheric chemistry, broadening our knowledge of distant worlds. The James Webb Space Telescope has once again pushed the boundaries of our understanding of the cosmos by capturing an image of one of the strangest exoplanets known to date. Located 60 light-years away, the exoplanet, 14 Herculis c, orbits a star similar to our Sun. What makes this discovery particularly remarkable is that 14 Herculis c is the coldest exoplanet ever directly imaged, offering astronomers a unique opportunity to study a new class of planetary bodies. This discovery not only expands our catalog of exoplanets but also opens new avenues in our quest to understand distant worlds. Expanding Our Catalog of Alien Worlds The James Webb Space Telescope has unlocked a new realm of exoplanet research with its ability to image colder planets. According to William Balmer, a graduate student at Johns Hopkins University and co-first author of the study, 'The colder an exoplanet, the harder it is to image, so this is a totally new regime of study that Webb has unlocked with its extreme sensitivity in the infrared.' Webb's image of 14 Herculis c reveals a world unlike those previously studied, broadening our understanding of the diversity among exoplanets. The central star, 14 Herculis, shares similarities with our Sun in age and temperature but is slightly less massive and cooler. This system contains two known planets, with 14 Herculis c being the focus of Webb's latest observations. The telescope's capabilities allow astronomers to observe not just hot, young exoplanets but also older, colder ones, providing a more comprehensive view of planetary evolution. 'I'm Almost Certain There Are Inhabited Planets': Astrophysicist Drops Chilling Statement That Shakes Our Place in the Universe Webb's groundbreaking observation capabilities have added invaluable data to our growing catalog of exoplanets, enhancing our ability to understand their formation and characteristics. As Balmer notes, 'We are now able to add to the catalog not just hot, young exoplanets imaged, but older exoplanets that are far colder than we've directly seen before Webb.' Weird Worlds Around 14 Herculis The 14 Herculis system presents a fascinating case study for astronomers due to its unusual planetary orbits. Unlike the orderly, flat plane of planets in our Solar System, the two exoplanets around 14 Herculis exhibit an unusual and chaotic orbital pattern. Their paths cross each other at an angle of about 40 degrees, resembling an 'X' in space. This gravitational dance suggests a tumultuous past, possibly involving the ejection of a third planet. 'NASA Unveils Cosmic Spectacle': Stunning New Images and Sounds of Andromeda Galaxy Leave Astronomers in Absolute Awe Such erratic orbits offer insights into the early formation and evolution of planetary systems. William Balmer comments, 'The early evolution of our own Solar System was dominated by the movement and pull of our own gas giants.' The gravitational interactions in the 14 Herculis system remind us of the chaotic forces that might have shaped our own cosmic neighborhood. These findings prompt astronomers to consider how similar gravitational interactions might have influenced the development of our Solar System. This intriguing system stands as a natural laboratory for studying the complex dynamics that govern planetary motion, offering a glimpse into the possible fates of nascent planetary systems. 'I Was Convinced We'd Found Aliens': Scientists Backtrack on K2-18b Breakthrough Before Revealing the Devastating Truth Webb's Investigations of 14 Herculis c Webb's observations of 14 Herculis c have revealed critical details about the planet's orbit and atmospheric composition. The planet follows a highly elliptical orbit, swinging out 1.4 billion miles from its host star. This distance positions 14 Herculis c between Saturn and Uranus in our Solar System, providing a unique opportunity for comparative analysis. Through precise measurements of the planet's brightness at 4.4 microns, Webb has allowed astronomers to infer details about its atmosphere. Daniella C. Bardalez Gagliuffi of Amherst College explains, 'If a planet of a certain mass formed 4 billion years ago, then cooled over time because it doesn't have a source of energy keeping it warm, we can predict how hot it should be today.' Interestingly, 14 Herculis c's brightness is fainter than expected, a phenomenon attributed to 'carbon disequilibrium chemistry.' In this process, molecules formed at warmer temperatures in the lower atmosphere are rapidly transported to the colder upper layers, defying conventional expectations. This unique atmospheric trait offers a valuable comparison to the coldest brown dwarfs, furthering our understanding of planetary atmospheres. Unveiling the Mysteries of 14 Herculis c The discovery of 14 Herculis c marks a remarkable milestone in our exploration of distant worlds. As the coldest exoplanet ever directly imaged, it challenges our preconceptions and expands our knowledge of planetary diversity. The unusual orbital dynamics and atmospheric characteristics of 14 Herculis c provide a rare opportunity to study the forces shaping planetary systems. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of this intriguing exoplanet, questions arise about the potential for other cold exoplanets waiting to be discovered. What other secrets do these distant worlds hold, and how might they reshape our understanding of planetary formation and evolution? The James Webb Space Telescope's ongoing exploration promises to unlock new frontiers and inspire further inquiry into the enigmatic nature of our universe. This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (28)


Sustainability Times
3 days ago
- Sustainability Times
'It's Going to Shatter the Moon!': Scientists Brace for 2032 Asteroid Impact That Could Ignite Earth's Skies with Apocalyptic Fury
IN A NUTSHELL 🌕 Asteroid 2024 YR4 is on a potential collision course with the Moon, possibly impacting in 2032. is on a potential collision course with the Moon, possibly impacting in 2032. 🚀 If it strikes, up to 220 million pounds of lunar rock could be ejected into space, creating a meteor shower. of lunar rock could be ejected into space, creating a meteor shower. 🛰️ The debris poses a significant threat to Earth's orbital infrastructure and satellites. and satellites. 🔭 This scenario offers a unique chance to test planetary defense capabilities against asteroids. In 2032, the skies above Earth may present a spectacular yet alarming display as an asteroid known as 2024 YR4 is on a potential collision course with the Moon. Although it no longer poses a direct threat to Earth, this scenario could lead to a shower of space debris with serious implications for satellites and orbital infrastructures. This event could transform the skies into a captivating yet hazardous theater, challenging our readiness to protect space assets. A City-Killer Spotted in Time Discovered in December 2024, 2024 YR4 measures approximately 200 feet in diameter. While it is not a planet-ending asteroid, it is large enough to annihilate a metropolis if it were to collide directly with Earth. Initial projections indicated a 3.1% probability of a collision with Earth on December 22, 2032. This relatively high probability immediately caught NASA's attention, triggering extensive monitoring and calculations. Fortunately, further calculations have ruled out any threat to Earth. For now, humanity can breathe a sigh of relief, but another celestial body could potentially be in the asteroid's path. As scientists continue to track 2024 YR4, the focus has shifted to the Moon, which lies within the asteroid's possible trajectory. A Man Uncovers $2 Million in Cash and 50 Gold Bars During Renovation—and Stuns Everyone by Calling the Police The Moon in the Crosshairs Since April 2025, astronomers have been closely monitoring a new potential trajectory: one leading to an impact with the Moon. This time, the numbers are slightly less reassuring. The probability of a lunar collision has risen from 3.8% to 4.3%, and this figure may fluctuate as observations become more precise. The final trajectory is expected to be confirmed around 2028, during the asteroid's next close approach. Should 2024 YR4 strike the Moon, the impact would be monumental. The implications of such an event extend beyond scientific curiosity; they underscore the need for vigilance and preparedness in space exploration and defense. 'China Prepares for War in Space': HQ-29 Missile System Can Destroy Satellites and Ballistic Threats Mid-Air A Sci-Fi Worthy Lunar Impact Researchers from the University of Western Ontario, specializing in solar system dynamics, have conducted simulations to predict the outcome of an asteroid impact on our natural satellite. The results suggest that up to 220 million pounds of lunar rock could be ejected into space. If the asteroid strikes the Moon's visible face, approximately 10% of this debris could be captured by Earth's gravity in the subsequent days. This debris would eventually burn up in Earth's atmosphere, creating a global light show—a spectacular meteor shower that could last for several days. Such a celestial event would be both breathtaking and perilous, highlighting the intricate balance between beauty and danger in space phenomena. 'Flying Car Opened Up a Whole New World for Me': Streetwing's Daring Design Ignites the Next Chapter in Pure Personal Exploration Celestial Beauty and Orbital Threat While this prospect may excite astronomy enthusiasts, it poses significant risks to space infrastructure. As astronomer Paul Wiegert notes, 'A rock one centimeter in diameter traveling at tens of thousands of feet per second is a cosmic bullet.' Such a particle could destroy a satellite or damage a crewed space station, such as the Chinese Tiangong station. The risk is compounded by the rapid increase in the number of satellites in orbit. By 2032, Earth's skies will be far more crowded with constellations of satellites for internet, navigation, weather, and defense. Researchers estimate that the probability of an impact with a satellite could increase by 1,000 times if debris projections hold true. An Opportunity to Test Planetary Defenses? This lunar scenario also presents a unique opportunity: testing human capabilities to deflect an asteroid before it poses a direct threat to Earth. Paul Wiegert considers 2024 YR4 an 'ideal target' for such a mission, akin to NASA's DART mission, which successfully altered the trajectory of the asteroid Dimorphos in 2022. However, caution is advised. If a deflection attempt fails or is poorly calculated, the asteroid could be redirected toward Earth, resulting in a far more catastrophic scenario. The delicate balance between proactive measures and unintended consequences must be managed with precision. The potential impact of 2024 YR4 on the Moon, while unlikely to threaten humanity directly, could disrupt vital space systems. It would offer an unprecedented celestial spectacle, unseen for millennia. As we consider the implications, we must ask ourselves: Are we truly prepared to defend our planet, even against an indirect strike? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.7/5 (21)