NASA's X-59 quiet supersonic experimental aircraft has made its highest and fastest flights so far, expanding its operational range and making progress toward supersonic flight.
The U.S. space agency said in a pair of test flights earlier this month, the aircraft reached new altitudes and speeds, reaching 43,000 feet and 528 to 627 mph, respectively, (approximately Mach 0.8 to 0.95 in those conditions). Those flights were the eighth and ninth overall for the X-59 and marked a jump from its previously reached altitude of 32,000 feet, attained on April 7.
The aircraft continues to make operational progress since its first flight at 230 mph at 12,000 feet - but its current phase of flight testing, known as envelope expansion, is about more than just speed and altitude.
by Joji Xavier
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