NASA x Lockheed Martin’s X-59 Quiet SuperSonic Technology (QueSST) aircraft successfully ran its engine with maximum afterburner for the very first time. This ground test was conducted at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California, marking a significant milestone as the X-59 team progresses towards its first flight.
For those unfamiliar with what an afterburner does, it’s basically a component of some jet engines that generates additional thrust. Running said engine, an F414-GE-100, with the afterburner on will allow the X-59 to meet its supersonic speed requirements. The successful test showed the engine’s ability to operate within temperature limits and with adequate airflow for flight.
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After the engine runs, the X-59 team will move to aluminum bird testing, where data will be fed to the aircraft under both normal and failure conditions. The team will then proceed with a series of taxi tests, where the aircraft will be put in motion on the ground. These tests will be followed by final preparations for first flight,” said Amber Philman-Blair, NASA Langley Public Affairs Specialist.
