NASA and Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works subsidiary have started the first testing phase of an engine that will power the X-59 experimental aircraft being built to achieve quiet supersonic flights under the space agency’s Quesst mission.
The modified F414-GE-100 engine, installed atop the aircraft, provides 22,000 lb of thrust to meet the desired cruising speed of 925 mph at an altitude of approximately 55,000 ft, NASA said Wednesday.
Faster Than Speed of Sound
The trial, which began on Oct. 30 at Skunk Works’ facility in California, aims to verify that the engine, while operated at low speed, has no leaks and can power other aircraft systems, including hydraulics, electrical and environmental control, without any issues. Following the first phase, the aircraft will be tested at high power with rapid throttle changes and undergo a simulated flight.
According to NASA, the Quesst mission will use the aircraft to demonstrate technology that can fly faster than the speed of sound while reducing the loudness of sonic booms to a quiet thump. The effort will enable gathering data on how people perceive the thumps to help regulators decide whether current bans on commercial supersonic flight over land could be lifted, the agency added.
X-59 Maiden Flight Delayed
NASA now expects the X-59, manufactured by Skunk Works, to conduct its maiden flight in early 2025. The flight was previously delayed to 2024 to fully integrate aircraft components and ensure system performance. According to NASA, the demo was moved once again because of the challenges involved with reaching a series of integrated ground tests, including the engine runs, needed to ensure a safe flight.
