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NASA's X-59 Quiet Supersonic Aircraft Completes Test Flight

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

NASA's X-59 quiet supersonic aircraft conducted its second test flight on March 20, 2026, from Edwards Air Force Base in California.
The flight, planned for about an hour, ended after nine minutes due to a cockpit warning and a safe return to base.
The X-59 aims to demonstrate a quieter 'thump' from supersonic flight and enable overland commercial travel as NASA plans multiple tests in 2026 under the Quesst mission.

History

Historical Context

The North American X-15 program, active from 1959 to 1968, set records in speed and altitude, reaching over 4,500 miles per hour and crossing the edge of space. This groundbreaking research, involving NASA and North American Aviation, provided vital data for future aerospace developments. The recent X-59 test flight aims to build on this legacy by addressing the noise barrier that has historically limited supersonic overland flights.

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Story summary

NASA's X-59 quiet supersonic aircraft conducted its second test flight on March 20, 2026, from Edwards Air Force Base in California.
The flight, planned for about an hour, ended after nine minutes due to a cockpit warning and a safe return to base.
The X-59 aims to demonstrate a quieter 'thump' from supersonic flight and enable overland commercial travel as NASA plans multiple tests in 2026 under the Quesst mission.

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