Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
NASA's X-59 test pilot Nils Larson shares a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to fly the one-of-a-kind X-plane. In this video, Larson talks about the envelope expansion phase of the X-59. Envelope expansion is a series of flights at different altitudes and speeds where the team performs tests and collects data to prove that the aircraft can safely fly in national airspace. NASA is flying the X-59 higher and faster and will ultimately test its quiet supersonic performance.
NASA's X-59 test pilot Nils Larson shares a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to fly the one-of-a-kind X-plane. In this video, Larson talks about the envelope expansion phase of the X-59. Envelope expansion is a series of flights at different altitudes and speeds where the team performs tests and collects data to prove that the aircraft can safely fly in national airspace. NASA is flying the X-59 higher and faster and will ultimately test its quiet supersonic performance.
