NASA's X-59 QueSST Completes First Supersonic Flight, Reaching Mach 1.1
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Posted By: Rob Vogelaar
Sat on the counter overnight. Well past its best.
Summary
NASA's X-59 QueSST experimental aircraft has successfully completed its first supersonic flight, reaching Mach 1.1 (713 mph) at 43,400 feet on June 5, 2026. This milestone is part of the ongoing flight-test program following the aircraft's maiden flight in October 2025, and represents a significant step toward developing quieter supersonic air travel through NASA's Quiet SuperSonic Technology initiative.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledThe aircraft exceeded the speed of sound on June 5, 2026, as part of its ongoing flight-test program in the United States.
The milestone comes as NASA continues expanding the aircraft's flight envelope following its maiden flight in October 2025.
During the test, the X-59 QueSST (Quiet SuperSonic Technology) reached approximately Mach 1.1 (713 mph) and climbed to an altitude of 43,400 feet.
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