NASA to Unveil X-59 Supersonic Jet Designed for Quieter Sonic 'Thump'

The unveiling marks the start of a multiyear testing phase, with concerns raised about potential environmental impact.

NASA is set to unveil the X-59 QueSST experimental aircraft, designed to travel at supersonic speeds without producing a sonic boom, on January 12.
The X-59 is expected to generate a 'sonic thump' at around 75 decibels, much quieter than a typical sonic boom's 110 decibels.
The aircraft is part of NASA's QueSST mission, which aims to demonstrate quieter supersonic flight and could potentially bring a return to supersonic air travel over land.
The unveiling marks the start of a multiyear testing phase, during which the X-59 will fly over several US communities to gather data and assess public reactions to the sonic thump.
Despite the potential benefits, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of increased supersonic travel, particularly in relation to carbon emissions.