5 sources·Technology

Boom Supersonic Breaks Sound Barrier with XB-1 Jet

Boom Supersonic's XB-1 becomes the first privately developed aircraft to break the sound barrier, achieving Mach 1.122 during its test flight.

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With the successful test flight of the XB-1, the prospect of a new era of supersonic travel seems closer, and there is a palpable excitement about the potential for faster, quieter, and more economical flights that could revolutionize air travel.
The company planning a successor to Concorde makes its first supersonic test
NPR·2M
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The successful development and testing of the X-59 not only symbolizes a major leap in aviation technology but also holds the potential to reshape the landscape of air travel by making supersonic flights a viable option over populated areas.
NASA's X-59 jet ready to transform supersonic travel with flight in 2025
Straight Arrow News·2M
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The successful flight of the XB-1 demonstrator signals a hopeful resurgence of supersonic travel, showcasing the potential for private innovation to achieve what once required government resources.
For the first time, a privately developed aircraft has flown faster than sound
ARS Technica·2M
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The achievement of breaking the sound barrier with the XB-1 marks a significant milestone in aviation, heralding a new era of supersonic travel that could bring immense benefits to both passengers and the aviation industry.
Civilian jet breaks sound barrier during historic test flight over Mojave Desert
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Boom Supersonic's breakthrough with the XB-1 not only signifies a pivotal moment for the US aviation sector but also underscores the urgency for innovation to counter rising competition from China's aviation industry.
This startup just flew supersonic for the first time. We talked to its CEO about reviving the Concorde era and beating China.
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Updated: Jan 28th, 2025, 7:02 PM ET

Summary

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On Tuesday, Boom Supersonic's XB-1 demonstrator successfully reached Mach 1.122 in a test flight, marking a significant milestone for the company's development of commercial supersonic travel. The XB-1, piloted by Tristan Brandenburg, completed its twelfth test flight over California, achieving speeds of 750 mph. This aircraft serves as a precursor to the Overture, aimed at commercial flights by 2030, with over 130 orders already placed. In parallel, NASA's X-59 project is exploring quieter supersonic flight, paving the way for the revival of supersonic air travel.

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