Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 experimental supersonic aircraft reached a new speed of 1,012 km/h in its most recent test.
Colorado-based Boom is conducting a flight test program for the XB-1 supersonic aircraft. The vehicle completed its most recent test flight on November 5. This is the 7th of 10 subsonic test flights to confirm the XB-1’s performance and ride quality before reaching supersonic speeds, according to Space.
During the test flight on November 5, lasting 55 minutes, the XB-1 reached an altitude of 7,015 m and a new maximum speed of 1,012 km/h. This means the aircraft has reached a speed of Mach 0.82, marking an important milestone in its progress towards Mach 1 and overcoming the sound barrier. According to Boom Supersonic’s announcement, the 7th flight focuses on expanding altitude and speed, and checking cockpit pressure to ensure safe operation as the XB-1 approaches supersonic speed and flies. higher.
On the XB-1’s most recent flight, tests with the oscillating excitation system (FES) were conducted at speeds of Mach 0.7, 0.75, and 0.8. These tests help ensure there are no unintended interactions between the airflow around the aircraft and the vehicle’s structure at increasing speeds.
The development team also performed a cockpit pressure test at maximum differential pressure, proving that the aircraft was ready to fly at 9,144 m, the altitude at which the XB-1 will fly when it reaches supersonic speed. The vehicle will gradually increase speed and altitude in preparation to overcome the sound barrier at Mach 1. The XB-1’s performance will provide the foundation for the design and development of the company’s flagship project, Overture, Supersonic passenger aircraft make air traffic much faster and more efficient.