Plane Crazy: X-59 pilot to discuss Lockheed project
MOJAVE — The area known as home to the first-ever sonic boom is now working to deliver a much quieter supersonic flight.
NASA’s X-59 experimental research aircraft is designed specifically to prevent the sharp crack typically produced when an airplane flies faster than the speed of sound, instead delivering a soft “thump,” which researchers liken to hearing a neighbor’s car door shut.
Designed and built at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, the X-59 will eventually be used to collect data regarding the public response to flights with the quieter supersonic technology. This data will be used shape future regulations that may allow for supersonic flights over populated areas, something that has been prohibited for 50 years due to the disruption of sonic booms.
The completed aircraft
was unveiled Jan. 12 to an invitation-only crowd at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale. Following months of ground testing, engine runs and taxi tests, it is expected to make its first flight later this year.
James Less, a NASA project pilot who will be putting the X-59 through its paces, will discuss the ground-breaking project on Saturday at the Mojave Air and Space Port.
Less’ presentation will begin at 11 a.m. in the Board Room, in the Administration Building at the end of Airport Boulevard. Seating is limited and reservations may be made by emailing info@ mojavemuseum.org. A donation to the Mojave Transportation Museum Foundation is requested.
The presentation is part of Plane Crazy Saturday, the monthly gathering of aviation enthusiasts hosted by the foundation.
The free, family-friendly educational event features a flight line filled with aircraft of varied types and vintages, available for visitors to see up close.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission to the flight line with its displays is through the Voyager restaurant, in the Administration building.
Dogs and other animals, other than service animals, are not permitted on the flight line.