NASA has taken another step in the development of the X-59, an experimental aircraft that promises to drastically reduce flight time between London and New York to just 3 hours and 30 minutes.
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Known as the “son of Concorde“, the jet is the result of a partnership with Lockheed Martin and its main goal is to test supersonic flight with low noise levels — a barrier that has hindered the advancement of commercial supersonic aviation in recent decades.
+ Video: X-59 begins ground testing phase
Recently, the X-59 completed its first taxi tests, moving along the runway under its own power for the first time. Engineers closely monitored the aircraft’s behavior, checking essential components such as braking and steering. These tests are part of the final ground assessment phase before the aircraft can make its maiden flight.
Although the X-59 is not designed to carry passengers, its performance could pave the way for the return of commercial supersonic flights. The project is part of NASA’s Quesst mission, which aims to enable this type of transport in an efficient and quiet way.
Meanwhile, other initiatives are also competing in this space, such as the XB-1 from Boom Technology, which is advancing in testing and aims to reach supersonic speeds soon.
Source and images: X @LockheedMartin @nasa | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
