History of Sonic boom in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 27, 2025

A sonic boom is a loud, explosive sound created by shock waves when an object exceeds the speed of sound. It's caused by the compression of air as the object moves, creating a pressure difference that results in a powerful release of energy, perceived as a loud boom. The sound resembles an explosion or thunderclap due to the rapid and intense nature of the shock waves reaching the ear.

1964: Oklahoma City Sonic Boom Tests Begin

In 1964, NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration initiated the Oklahoma City sonic boom tests, subjecting the city to eight sonic booms per day for six months.

1969: Government Loses Sonic Boom Lawsuit Appeal

In 1969, the government lost its appeal in a class-action lawsuit stemming from the 1964 Oklahoma City sonic boom tests, which had generated 15,000 complaints.

2006: Quiet Spike Testing

In 2006, NASA and Gulfstream Aerospace tested the Quiet Spike on NASA Dryden's F-15B aircraft. The Quiet Spike, designed to weaken shock waves at supersonic speeds, underwent over 50 test flights.

2015: Supersonic Aircraft Defined

In 2015, supersonic aircraft were defined as those capable of exceeding Mach 1, the speed of sound, with typical speeds ranging from 700 to 1,500 mph.

2018: NASA Awards Low Boom Flight Demonstrator Contract

In 2018, NASA awarded Lockheed Martin a $247.5 million contract to construct the Low Boom Flight Demonstrator, aiming to reduce sonic booms to the sound of a car door closing.