NASA Begins Engine Tests on Experimental X-59

Supersonic research aircraft's powerplant fired up for the first time at Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California.

Kimberly Johnson

Thursday, November 07, 2024 at 12:28 PM ET

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Kimberly Johnson

NASA’s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft sits in its run stall at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California. [Credit: NASA/Carla Thomas]

Key Takeaways:

NASA has conducted the first engine fire-up of its experimental X-59 Quiet SuperSonic Technology (QueSST) aircraft, marking the launch of testing to ensure systems work together.
The X-59 project aims to collect data to help shape future regulations for commercial supersonic flight over land by significantly reducing sonic boom noise.
The initial engine tests, which began October 30, verified the modified F414-GE-100 engine and other aircraft systems are operating correctly after being in preservation mode.
Designed to fly at Mach 1.4 (925 mph) with its unique engine placement contributing to quieter operation, the X-59 will proceed with taxi and flight tests next.

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NASA has fired up the engine of its experimental X-59 supersonic aircraft for the first time, marking the launch of testing to ensure the powerplant and systems work together.

The one-of-a-kind X-59 Quiet SuperSonic Technology (QueSST) aircraft is part of NASA’s Low Boom Flight Demonstration project aimed at collecting data to help shape regulations for possible future commercial supersonic flight over land 50 years after it was banned by the FAA due to the noise of the sonic boom.