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The XB-1 airplane by Boom Supersonic flew faster than sound on 28 January. It was the first civil airplane to do this over the US. This is a big step towards having supersonic planes for everyone. Greg Krauland, a former engineer for Boom Supersonic, said the XB-1 has the technology needed for a supersonic airliner.
At Mojave Air & Space Port, Tristan Brandenburg flew the XB-1 on its twelfth test flight. It broke the sound barrier, reaching Mach 1.11 speed. The Concorde, a supersonic airliner in the past, had challenges and retired in 2003. Now, Boom Supersonic is planning the Overture airliner that can go even faster.
The success of the XB-1 could bring back supersonic flights for passengers. Other companies like Dawn Aerospace and NASA are also working on supersonic aircraft. A joint flight with the XB-1 and NASA’s X-59 experimental plane is being planned.
Vocabulary List:
- Supersonic /ˌsuː.pəˈsɒn.ɪk/ (adjective): Relating to speed that exceeds the speed of sound.
- Airliner /ˈɛə.laɪ.nər/ (noun): A large aircraft designed for transporting passengers.
- Technology /tɛkˈnɒlədʒi/ (noun): The application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes.
- Mach /mɑːk/ (noun): A dimensionless unit used to measure speed relative to the speed of sound.
- Barrier /ˈbæriər/ (noun): A fence or obstacle that prevents movement or access.
- Experimental /ɪkˌspɛrɪˈmɛn.təl/ (adjective): Related to tests or trials to discover something new.
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