# @nasa on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DRSwgXmj0Gm
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/37167368-nasa-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/682367872f.jpg
- **Posted:** 2025-11-20T21:18:42.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** NASA (@NASA) — https://gondola.cc/NASA

## Caption

Making history ✈️

On Oct. 28, 2025, our X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft took off for the first time. Though this initial flight was subsonic - that is, slower than the speed of sound - the X-59 is designed to fly at supersonic speeds and reduce the sound of loud sonic booms to quieter sonic thumps.⁣
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For this first flight, NASA test pilot Nils Larson flew the X-59 up to an altitude of about 12,000 feet and an approximate top speed of 230 mph (370 kph), precisely as planned. These conditions allowed the team to conduct in-flight system and performance checks.⁣
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Next up for NASAAero and the X-59? We’re prepping for a series of test flights where the plane will operate at higher altitudes and supersonic speeds. This phase will ensure the X-59 meets performance and safety expectations.⁣
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Image description: The X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft lifts off from Palmdale, California. The white and silver plane has a distinctive shape with a long, sharply pointed nose. The words "NASA" and "X-59" are on the body of the aircraft. There are hazy mountains in the distance.⁣
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Credit: NASA/Carla Thomas⁣
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#NASA #Aeronautics #Aviation #Supersonic #Quiet #Flying

## Stats

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## Tags

flying, nasa, quiet, aeronautics, aviation, supersonic

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