NASA’s X-59 QueSST flew faster than the speed of sound for the first time, expanding into the supersonic portion of its flight envelope.
NASA’s experimental X-59 QueSST (Quiet SuperSonic Technology) conducted its first supersonic flight on June 5, 2026, reaching a top speed of approximately Mach 1.1 (713 mph) and altitude of 43,400 feet. The milestone arrived as the aircraft continues to expand its flight envelope following the first flight in October 2025.
Going Supersonic
For this test flight, the aircraft was piloted by NASA test pilot Jim “Clue” Less. Less took off from Edwards Air Force Base, California, at 11:08 a.m.