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NASA's X-59 Tests Quiet Supersonic Flight Design at Edwards

4/17/2026

30 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

NASA's X-59 aircraft completed a gear-up flight at Edwards Air Force Base to test its design.
The test aims to produce a quieter sonic 'thump' rather than a loud boom.
The X-59 could shorten London to New York flights to about 3 hours 44 minutes.
Overland supersonic flights are currently restricted due to noise regulations.

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Story summary

NASA's X-59 aircraft completed a gear-up flight at Edwards Air Force Base to test its design.
The test aims to produce a quieter sonic 'thump' rather than a loud boom.
The X-59 could shorten London to New York flights to about 3 hours 44 minutes.
Overland supersonic flights are currently restricted due to noise regulations.