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NASA\u2019s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft took off for its historic first flight on Oct. 28 at 11:14 a.m. EDT from Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, California. The one-of-a-kind aircraft flew for 67 minutes before landing and taxiing to NASA\u2019s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California.<\/p>\n
NASA test pilot Nils Larson flew the X-59 up to an altitude of about 12,000 feet and an approximate top speed of 230 mph, precisely as planned. The plane\u2019s landing gear remained down during the entire flight, a common practice for experimental aircraft flying for the first time.<\/p>\n
Now that the X-59\u2019s first flight is in the books, the team is focused on preparing for a series of test flights where the aircraft will operate at higher altitudes and supersonic speeds.\u00a0This test flight phase of NASA\u2019s Quesst mission will ensure the X-59 meets performance and safety expectations.<\/p>\n
Through the Quesst mission, NASA aims to usher in a new age of quiet supersonic flight, achieved through the unique design and technology of the X-59 in future supersonic transport aircraft.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n