BEYOND MACH 5

This computational image shows air flowing over NASA’S X-43A, supersonic combustion ramjet as it travels at Mach 7

TAKE A BREATH

The ability to ‘airbreathe’ means that the X-43A doesn’t need to carry oxygen, only fuel, unlike current rockets.

SPEEDING UP AND HEATING UP

As the jet travels at hypersonic speeds, heat increases rapidly. The red areas of the jet are the hottest; blue is the coolest.

UNDER PRESSURE

Pressure waves build around the jet in three prominent locations at hypersonic speeds, with the greatest at its tail.

THE ENGINE BODYWORK

In these jets, air flows through the engine at supersonic speeds, meaning the body acts as part of the engine. While the X-43A’S forebody acts as an air intake, its aft section acts as a nozzle, allowing air to escape. One inflow and outflow of air reduces drag.