Can supersonic flight be quiet?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the feasibility of achieving quiet supersonic flight, exploring the technological advancements and challenges associated with this concept. Participants examine the implications for cabin and external noise, as well as the competitive landscape of supersonic aircraft development.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the definition of "quiet," suggesting it may refer to noise levels compared to existing supersonic aircraft or subsonic aircraft.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the viability of quiet supersonic flight, likening it to a marketing concept rather than a practical reality.
  • Another participant counters that significant research has been conducted over the past two decades, indicating that the technology for quiet supersonic flight exists, but regulatory hurdles remain.
  • Concerns are raised about the economic and environmental performance of aircraft designed to minimize sonic booms, with one participant noting that achieving acceptable performance is still uncertain.
  • Participants mention various companies involved in supersonic aircraft development, including Spike Aerospace and Aerion, highlighting the competitive nature of the industry.
  • One participant describes the goal of quiet supersonic flight as spreading the pressure wave to create a rumble rather than a bang, which could reduce the startle effect associated with sonic booms.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of skepticism and optimism regarding the potential for quiet supersonic flight. There is no consensus on whether the concept is feasible or merely a marketing strategy, and multiple competing views remain on the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the need for clarity on what "quiet" entails in the context of supersonic flight, as well as the challenges related to performance and regulatory approval.

Astronuc
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Quiet supersonic flight is an intriguing idea. Is it possible? We'll see perhaps this year.

I'd be curious about the cabin noise, as well as the external noise.

Spike Aerospace expands quiet supersonic aircraft development
Engineering is on track for a first flight of a subsonic prototype of the jet by late summer of 2017.
http://www.aerospacemanufacturingan...quiet-supersonic-aircraft-development-012717/

Spike Aerospace evaluating engines for supersonic jet
Two major suppliers being evaluated for S-512 supersonic business jet.
http://www.aerospacemanufacturingan...pike-aerospace-engines-supersonic-jet-062416/

http://www.spikeaerospace.com/s-512-supersonic-jet/

http://www.spikeaerospace.com/quiet-supersonic-flight/

http://www.spikeaerospace.com/s-512-supersonic-jet/specifications-performance/

No endorsement expressed or implied.
 
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What does quiet mean? Quiet compared to current supersonic aircraft, but loud compared to subsonic aircraft? Similar to subsonic aircraft?

Just 18 passengers, and they want to be competitive with big subsonic aircraft? Even without the supersonic flight that sounds questionable.
 
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mfb said:
What does quiet mean? Quiet compared to current supersonic aircraft, but loud compared to subsonic aircraft? Similar to subsonic aircraft?

The Spike S-512 will be the first supersonic jet designed with Quiet Supersonic Flight (QSF), the proprietary technology developed by Spike to minimize the sonic boom by optimizing the aerodynamic design.
 
“Quiet supersonic flight” is as mythical as “clean coal”. I think it is marketing at it's best.
 
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It's not mythical, really. There's been a lot of research on it by legit entities over the last 20 years. The tech largely exists. It's mostly a matter of time and regulations at this point.

Spike Aerospace I'd hardly the leader I'm the sector, though. There are other players who are pretty far along.
 
mfb said:
What does quiet mean? Quiet compared to current supersonic aircraft, but loud compared to subsonic aircraft? Similar to subsonic aircraft?

Just 18 passengers, and they want to be competitive with big subsonic aircraft? Even without the supersonic flight that sounds questionable.

Since the retirement of Concorde there have been quite a few proposals for supersonic business jets for people who are willing to pay a premium to get somewhere fast. Aerion has been working on a design for several years now with help from Airbus.
 
Quiet here means the pressure wave from the aircrafts passage is spread out sufficiently that the sound perceived becomes a rumble rather than a bang.
That is much less troublesome, as the startle aspect is eliminated.
Whether that can be achieved in an aircraft that has acceptable performance economically and environmentally is still open.
 

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