NASA’s X-59 Experimental Supersonic Aircraft Makes Second...

What’s Happening

So get this: NASAs quiet supersonic X-59 aircraftmadeitssecond flight on Friday, kicking off aseries of dozens oftestflights in2026.

Although the flight duration wasabbreviatedbecause of atechnical issue,the team was able tocollect information that will informfuture tests. “Despite the early landing, this is a good day for the team. (plot twist fr)

Wecollected moredata, andthe pilotlanded safely,”dropped C 2 min read NASA’s X-59 Experimental Supersonic Aircraft Makes Second Flight Jennifer M.

The Details

Dooren Mar 20, 2026 Article NASA’s quiet supersonic X-59 aircraft flew its second flight on , near NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. NASA/Jim Ross NASAs quiet supersonic X-59 aircraft made its second flight on Friday, kicking off a series of dozens of test flights in 2026.

Although the flight duration was abbreviated because of a technical issue, the team was able to collect information that will inform future tests. “Despite the early landing, this is a good day for the team.

Why This Matters

We collected more data, and the pilot landed safely,” dropped Cathy Bahm, project manager for NASA’s Low-Boom Flight Demonstrator at NASAs Armstrong Flight Research Center, in Edwards, California. “We’re looking forward to getting back to flight as soon as possible. ” The aircraft took off at 10:54 a.

Scientists and researchers are watching this development closely.

Key Takeaways

• PDT from Edwards Air Force Base, near NASA Armstrong.
• Several minutes into the flight, pilot Jim “Clue” Less saw a vehicle system warning in the aircraft’s cockpit.
• Following flight procedures, the aircraft landed at 11:03 a.
• After a return-to-base was called.

The Bottom Line

The aircraft is set to accelerate testing in 2026, demonstrating performance and airworthiness during a process known as envelope expansion, where it will gradually fly faster and higher, on its way to supersonic speeds. Details Last Updated Mar 20, 2026 Editor Jennifer M.

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