1964: Oklahoma City Sonic Boom Tests Begin
In 1964, NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration initiated the Oklahoma City sonic boom tests. These tests involved eight sonic booms daily for six months, resulting in significant data collection but also sparking controversy due to the noise impact on residents.
1969: Government Loses Sonic Boom Lawsuit
In 1969, the US government faced legal repercussions for the Oklahoma City sonic boom tests, ultimately losing a class-action lawsuit stemming from noise complaints by residents.
2006: Quiet Spike Tests on F-15B
In 2006, NASA and Gulfstream Aerospace conducted over 50 test flights of the Quiet Spike on an F-15B aircraft. The Quiet Spike, a telescoping boom designed to reduce sonic boom intensity, was tested at NASA Dryden.
2015: Publication on Supersonic Aircraft
In 2015, a publication discussed the capabilities and characteristics of supersonic aircraft, highlighting their speed range and variations in design.
2018: Low Boom Flight Demonstrator Contract Awarded
In 2018, NASA awarded Lockheed Martin a $247.5 million contract to develop the Low Boom Flight Demonstrator, with the goal of significantly reducing the sonic boom.
October 2023: First Flight Anticipation for Low Boom Demonstrator
As of October 2023, the first flight of the Low Boom Flight Demonstrator, designed to mitigate sonic boom, was anticipated in 2024.
2024: Expected First Flight of Low Boom Demonstrator
The first flight of the Low Boom Flight Demonstrator, aiming to minimize sonic boom impact, was expected in 2024.