X-59 Supersonic Jet Takes Historic First Test Flight Over California Desert
NASA’s X-59 supersonic jet has marked a significant milestone with its inaugural test flight over the California desert. The aircraft, developed by Lockheed Martin, aims to revolutionize commercial air travel by breaking the sound barrier while minimizing noise.
X-59 Takes to the Skies
On October 28, 2025, the X-59 took flight from Plant 42 at the Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California. With a takeoff at sunrise, the jet successfully soared over farmland before heading north towards Edwards Air Force Base. The flight lasted approximately one hour and was overseen by a NASA chase plane.
Innovative Design
- Noise Reduction: The X-59 is engineered to create a ‘sonic thump’ instead of a traditional sonic boom, reducing impact on populated areas.
- Speed and Altitude: The aircraft is designed to cruise at Mach 1.4 (925 mph or 1,490 kph) at an altitude of 55,000 feet (16,764 meters).
- Flight Performance: During its first test, it operated at a subsonic speed of 230 mph (370 kph) and reached an altitude of 12,000 feet (3,660 meters).
Achievements and Future Goals
This flight represents a critical step towards the X-59’s ability to fly at higher speeds and altitudes. The data collected will guide the establishment of new sound thresholds for future supersonic flight over land.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy praised the project, emphasizing its potential to reshape flying experiences. Additionally, the X-59 was recently recognized as 2025’s “Coolest Thing Made in California” by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association.
Background on Supersonic Travel
Historically, the Concorde was the only successful supersonic passenger aircraft, operating from 1976 until its retirement in 2003. The end of its service was influenced by high operational costs, limited capacity, and tragic events that affected passenger confidence, like the crash in 2000 and the events of 9/11.
The X-59 project stands as an ambitious effort to bring back supersonic air travel with advances that prioritize comfort and compliance with sound regulations.
