
T-38C Passes in Front of the Sun at Supersonic Speed
An Air Force Test Pilot School T-38C passes in front of the sun at a supersonic speed, creating shockwaves that are caught photographically for research. NASA is using a modern version of a 150-year-old German photography technique -- schlieren imagery -- to visualize supersonic flow phenomena with full-scale aircraft in flight. The results will help engineers to design a quiet supersonic transport. Although current regulations prohibit unrestricted overland supersonic flight in the United States, a clear understanding of the location and relative strength of shock waves is essential for designing future high-speed commercial aircraft.
Image Credit: NASA / Ken Ulbrich
- X
https://www.nasa.gov/image-detail/t-38c-passes-front-of-sun-supersonic-speed/
Image CreditNASA / Ken Ulbrich
Size1041x833px