The XB-1 supersonic aircraft, developed by Boom Supersonic, has achieved a significant milestone by breaking the sound barrier without producing a sonic boom, a feat confirmed by CEO Blake Scholl. Observers and equipment did not register any audible sound waves, attributed to the aircraft’s mission profile that allows shock waves to refract in the atmosphere, preventing them from reaching the ground. Key factors influencing this outcome include flight altitude, wind speed, temperature, and atmospheric density during tests. The XB-1 demonstrator, measuring one-third the size of the planned Overture model, is designed for a cruise speed of Mach 1.7 and a maximum speed of Mach 2.2, with an operational range of 7,200 kilometers while accommodating 55 passengers. Utilizing advanced additive manufacturing, innovative material sciences, and cutting-edge aerodynamic techniques, the Overture aims to revolutionize air travel by making supersonic flight viable and quieter than ever. This breakthrough positions Boom Supersonic at the forefront of the aerospace industry, signaling a potential paradigm shift in commercial aviation.
