The XB-1 supersonic test aircraft from Boom Supersonic has achieved a new speed of 1,012 km/h during its latest test flight.
The XB-1 aircraft will conduct 10 test flights. (Photo: Boom Supersonic).
Colorado-based Boom is currently conducting flight tests for the XB-1 supersonic aircraft. The vehicle completed its most recent test flight on November 5th. This marks the seventh flight out of ten planned tests at subsonic speeds to confirm the performance and handling quality of the XB-1 before it reaches supersonic speeds, according to Space.
During the test flight on November 5th, which lasted 55 minutes, the XB-1 reached an altitude of 7,015 meters and a new maximum speed of 1,012 km/h. This means the aircraft has approached a speed of Mach 0.82, marking a significant milestone in its progression toward breaking the sound barrier at Mach 1. According to a statement from Boom Supersonic, the seventh flight focused on expanding altitude and speed while testing cockpit pressure to ensure safe operations as the XB-1 nears supersonic speeds and higher altitudes.
In its most recent flight, tests were conducted with the Flap Edge Stimulator (FES) at speeds of Mach 0.7, 0.75, and 0.8. These tests ensure that there are no unintended interactions between the airflow around the aircraft and the vehicle’s structure as speeds increase.
The development team also performed cockpit pressure tests at maximum pressure differentials, demonstrating that the aircraft is ready to fly at 9,144 meters, the altitude the XB-1 will reach when achieving supersonic speeds. The vehicle will gradually increase speed and altitude in preparation to break the sound barrier at Mach 1. The performance of the XB-1 will provide a foundation for the design and development of the company’s flagship project, Overture, a supersonic passenger aircraft aimed at making air travel significantly faster and more efficient.
