NASA Runs X-59 Engine in Maximum Afterburner
December 26, 2024
Edwards, California – NASA has successfully run the GE Aviation XA100 engine for the X-59 Quiet Supersonic Technology (QueSST) aircraft at maximum afterburner power, a critical milestone in the development of the experimental aircraft.
The test took place at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, and marked the first time the XA100 engine had been operated at full power. The engine is designed to propel the X-59 to supersonic speeds while generating a significantly quieter sonic boom than traditional supersonic aircraft.
The X-59 is a piloted experimental aircraft that will be used to demonstrate the feasibility of quiet supersonic flight over land. The aircraft is designed to reduce the loudness of a sonic boom to a gentle thump, opening up the possibility of commercial supersonic flight over populated areas.
“This is a major milestone for the X-59 program,” said Jaiwon Shin, associate administrator for NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate. “The XA100 engine is a key component of the aircraft, and running it at maximum afterburner power is a significant step forward in our effort to bring quiet supersonic flight to reality.”
The XA100 engine is a modified version of the F414 engine used in the F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter aircraft. The engine has been modified to reduce noise and improve fuel efficiency.
During the test, the XA100 engine was operated at maximum afterburner power for approximately 30 seconds. The engine performed as expected, and no anomalies were observed.
“The data from this test will help us to refine our models and simulations and ensure that the X-59 engine is ready for flight,” said Peter Coen, X-59 project manager.
The X-59 is scheduled to make its first flight in 2026. The aircraft will be flown over a variety of locations in the United States, including populated areas, to collect data on the loudness of the sonic boom.
NASA’s goal is to develop technologies that will make supersonic flight over land acceptable to the public. The X-59 is a key part of this effort, and the successful running of the XA100 engine at maximum afterburner power is a significant step forward in this endeavor.
NASA Runs X-59 Engine in Maximum Afterburner
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