Uploaded December 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
After years of design, development, and testing, NASA’s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft took to the skies for the first time on Oct. 28, 2025, marking a historic moment for the field of aeronautics research and the agency’s Quesst mission. Now, hear from the team who helped make it happen, including test pilot Nils Larson, as they reflect on the accomplishment.
For this initial flight, the aircraft flew at about 12,000 feet and slower than the speed of sound. These conditions allowed the team to conduct in-flight system and performance checks. Next, the X-59 will undergo a series of test flights where the plane will operate at higher altitudes and supersonic speeds to ensure it meets performance and safety expectations.
Read more about this first flight: nasa.gov/image-article/nasas-quesst-mission-marks-x-59s-historic-first-flight
Follow the X-59's progress and learn about the Quesst mission: nasa.gov/mission/quesst
Credit: NASA
After years of design, development, and testing, NASA’s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft took to the skies for the first time on Oct. 28, 2025, marking a historic moment for the field of aeronautics research and the agency’s Quesst mission. Now, hear from the team who helped make it happen, including test pilot Nils Larson, as they reflect on the accomplishment.
For this initial flight, the aircraft flew at about 12,000 feet and slower than the speed of sound. These conditions allowed the team to conduct in-flight system and performance checks. Next, the X-59 will undergo a series of test flights where the plane will operate at higher altitudes and supersonic speeds to ensure it meets performance and safety expectations.
Read more about this first flight: nasa.gov/image-article/nasas-quesst-mission-marks-x-59s-historic-first-flight
Follow the X-59's progress and learn about the Quesst mission: nasa.gov/mission/quesst
Credit: NASA
