NASA has postponed the first scheduled flight of its silent supersonic aircraft X-59 until 2024which was planned this year due to the complexity of the development of this prototype.
The X-59, a unique experimental aircraft, required complex engineering by NASA researchers working with prime contractor Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, details Europe Press.
In addition to the design of the aircraft, The X-59 also combines new technology with established multiple aircraft systems and componentssuch as the landing gear from an F-16 and the life support system adapted from an F-15.
As part of the requirements for the development of this unique aircraft, the so-called Quest mission team is working on several technical challenges identified during this year.
“More time is needed to fully integrate the systems into the aircraft and ensure they work together as expected. The team also occasionally troubleshoots some of the safety redundant computers that control the aircraft’s systems.” said a statement from the space agency.
The X-59 demonstrates the ability to fly supersonic, or faster than the speed of sound, while reducing the normally loud sonic boom to a quiet sonic boom.
NASA plans to fly the X-59 over several populated areas to collect data on how people perceive the sound it produces.
That information will be provided to U.S. and international regulators to potentially adjust current rules ban on commercial supersonic overland flights.
The aircraft is currently undergoing integrated testing, which must be completed before it can fly. Once that phase is complete, the plane will continue its journey with a flight readiness assessment, after which NASA plans to release a more specific schedule for the first flight. (JO)
Source: Eluniverso
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