FYI: Boom Supersonic has achieved a major breakthrough in aviation tech by developing supersonic flight with no audible sonic boom, promising faster travel times without the noise.
Boom Supersonic Announces Breakthrough in Quiet Supersonic Travel
In a groundbreaking announcement, Boom Supersonic has revealed that it has successfully developed and demonstrated technology that enables supersonic flight without the traditional disruptive sonic boom. CEO Blake Scholl made the announcement, sharing with enthusiasts that the firm has managed to create ‘Boomless Cruise,’ which allows flights up to 50% faster.
Silent Breakthrough with "Boomless Cruise"
The new technology, aptly named ‘Boomless Cruise,’ was subtly showcased during the XB-1’s initial supersonic flights. This innovative approach to quiet supersonic travel relies on a principle long known in physics but never fully realized until now—Mach cutoff. Scholl explained that this allows for the sonic boom to refract in the atmosphere at higher altitudes and redirect upwards, thus preventing any noise from reaching the ground.
Key Elements of Boomless Supersonic Flight
- Mach Cutoff Physics: At higher altitudes, the sonic boom bends upwards due to cold temperatures, making it inaudible on the ground.
- New Engine Technology: Boom’s Symphony engines, equipped with advanced capabilities, allow the aircraft to breach the sound barrier high enough to ensure the boom harmlessly dissipates upwards.
- Automatic Performance Optimization: Boom’s technology guides pilots to the optimum speed and altitude for quiet, efficient travel based on current weather conditions.
Performance and Potential
Boom Supersonic’s cutting-edge craft aims to maintain speeds between Mach 1.1 and Mach 1.2, with the potential to reach Mach 1.3. This is different from NASA’s X-59, as Boom’s solution entirely eliminates audible booms rather than reducing them. The Overture airliner’s enhanced transonic performance will expand to over 600 routes, with plans to increase coast-to-coast travel efficiency in the U.S., pending regulatory approval.
This remarkable achievement opens new horizons for commercial aviation, potentially transforming transcontinental travel. With quiet, high-speed flights, Boom Supersonic stands at the forefront of this new era, making supersonic travel faster and more accessible.
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Authored by William Rapp, Editor of Automotive.fyi
