NASA's Quesst mission aims to demonstrate the feasibility of silent supersonic flight. NASA partner Lockheed Martin unveiled the X-59's innovative design in January 2024. The plane features a long, narrow fuselage, an elongated nose and wings designed to minimize shockwave fusion, avoiding the typical sonic boom .
Instead of a bang, the X-59 should produce a sound similar to a distant thud, compared to the sound of a car door slamming. This new “sonic thud” has the potential to change perceptions and regulations about supersonic flight.
Bob Pearce, associate administrator for aeronautical research at NASA, highlighted the importance of this mission: “NASA will share the data and technology we generate from this unique mission with regulators and industry. By demonstrating the possibility of silent commercial supersonic travel over land, we seek to open new commercial markets for U.S. companies and benefit travelers around the world.”