NASA’s new probes will measure shock waves from the X-59, helping refine supersonic flight models to reduce noise and improve accuracy in future tests.
NASA is preparing to test enhanced tools for measuring the quieter sonic thumps produced by its X-59 supersonic aircraft. These tools include a shock-sensing probe to gather detailed pressure data from shock waves during supersonic flight.
Researchers at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, have developed two versions of the probe to capture precise pressure data during supersonic flight. One version is optimized for near-field measurements, capturing shock waves close to the aircraft’s source, while the other is designed for mid-field measurements, collecting data at altitudes between 5,000 and 20,000 feet below the X-59.
The probes’ ability to detect small pressure changes is crucial for the X-59, as its shock waves are expected to be significantly weaker than most supersonic aircraft. Researchers can more accurately evaluate their effectiveness by comparing the data from the probes to predictions from advanced computer models.
The probes feature five pressure ports—one at the tip and four around the cone—that measure static pressure changes as the aircraft moves through shock waves. These measurements help researchers understand the shock characteristics of the aircraft. The data from the ports are combined to calculate the airflow’s local pressure, speed, and direction.
Temperature sensitivity in previous designs posed a challenge, leading to fluctuations in accuracy due to changing conditions. To address this, the team developed a heating system that keeps the pressure transducers at a consistent temperature during flight.
Researchers are preparing to test upgrades to the near-field shock-sensing probe during upcoming test flights. The probe, mounted on one F-15B, will collect data while following a second F-15 in a supersonic flight. The upgrades include positioning the probe’s pressure transducers—devices that measure air pressure on the cone—just 5 inches from the ports, a significant improvement over previous designs that placed the transducers nearly 12 feet away. This change reduces delays in recording time and minimizes measurement distortion.
