aerospace
The Return of Supersonic Travel: A Nostalgic Pilot’s First Look at the Future
Mike Bannister, former Concorde pilot, tests the futuristic flight deck of Boom Supersonic Overture.
In the heart of the summer, at the bustling Farnborough International Airshow, a significant piece of aviation history intertwined with the future of supersonic travel. Mike Bannister, the former chief Concorde pilot renowned for his extensive experience with the iconic supersonic jet, took a remarkable step into the cockpit of the future. He had the unique opportunity to test the Overture flight deck simulator—introduced by Boom Supersonic—which promises to redefine high-speed commercial flight.
Bridging Generations of Aviation
The Concorde, retired two decades ago, was a symbol of speed and luxury, though encumbered with a complex cockpit crowded with knobs and gauges. Step into the era of Boom’s Overture, and the surroundings transform into something from a sci-fi film. The cockpit unveiled at the airshow, showcased sleek touchscreen interfaces replacing the myriad buttons of the past. The new design, according to Boom, centers around pilot convenience and a stark emphasis on safety.
“For someone who’s spent years flying a plane as iconic as the Concorde, seeing and experiencing the Overture’s advanced controls—it’s exhilarating,” Bannister shared after his simulation ride. “It’s not just about reliving the past speeds but stepping into a future where flying is not just faster but also significantly simpler.”
Simplicity and Safety in Design
The Overture’s designers have not simply focused on speed but brought forward a vision to streamline and enhance the flight experience. Incorporating feedback from real-world pilots, the cockpit is designed with an intuitive layout. Features like force-feedback sidesticks—a modern alternative to traditional yokes—offer pilots tactile feedback, mimicking the real-life responses of the aircraft.
“This new stick, it’s surprisingly intuitive,” remarked Brian Oliver, another former Concorde captain, echoing Bannister’s sentiments. “For someone who flew with yokes, adapting was a breeze, and the pressure feedback feels right.”
High-Tech Enhancements
Among the most futuristic aspects is the augmented reality system, replacing the old droop nose of the Concorde, which was mechanically lowered during takeoffs and landings to aid pilot visibility. Overture pilots will use augmented reality for enhanced situational awareness, benefiting from real-time digital overlays that guide safe landings and navigation.
Feedback from Wings of Experience
The transformation from analog to digital is stark, but former Consexual pilots find the transition smoother than anticipated. John Tye, another voice from Concorde’s past, commented on the ease with which he adapted to the controls: “It tells you something when you can jump into a simulator and almost immediately feel at home.”
Looking to the Skies
As we stand on the cusp of reviving commercial supersonic travel, the innovations in Overture’s cockpit represent a leap forward in making future air travel safer and more efficient. The advancements echo a shared sentiment among those who’ve commanded both Concorde and Overture: the spirit of supersonic travel is evolving, not just returning, and it’s coming with a promise of innovation crafted around the needs of those at the helm.
Boom Supersonic’s ambitions with Overture, reinforced by collaborations with leading aerospace technology experts, mark a committed step toward bringing the world closer, faster. As the prototypes transition into reality, both pilots and passengers may soon look forward to a new era where the allure of supersonic travel is commonplace, marrying nostalgia with groundbreaking advancements. Welcome back to the future of flying, where history meets innovation at mach speeds.
Read the story on the Boom Supersonic website: https://boomsupersonic.com/flyby/pilots-point-of-view-overtures-next-generation-flight-deck-mike-bannister
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If you’re curious about the latest developments in space exploration and sustainable technology, the latest episode of STM Daily News is a must-listen. Hosted by Rod Washington, this episode takes you on a journey from the depths of outer space to innovative advancements right here on Earth, all in under 30 minutes.
Highlights from the Episode
The episode opens with a fascinating story about two NASA astronauts who find themselves on an unexpectedly extended mission aboard the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Initially slated for a brief stay in space, these astronauts now face a much longer journey, with their return to Earth still uncertain. Rod explores the challenges and decisions NASA is facing as they work to bring these astronauts back home safely.
Next, the podcast dives into Blue Origin’s upcoming NS-26 mission. This mission is set to make headlines, not only because of the diverse crew of pioneers aboard but also due to the groundbreaking research being conducted. One crew member, in particular, is on track to set a new record, while others are carrying out important experiments that could shape the future of space exploration.
Space and Back to Earth
Finally, the episode brings listeners back to Earth with a look at California’s latest transportation innovation. Rod discusses the introduction of new hydrogen-powered trains in San Bernardino County, a significant step forward in the state’s push for zero-emission public transport. These trains are breaking records and could be a game-changer in the fight against climate change.
Why You Should Tune In
Rod Washington presents these stories in a way that’s easy to understand, even if you’re not a space expert or a tech enthusiast. The episode offers just enough detail to spark your interest without giving away too much, making it a perfect listen for anyone wanting to stay informed about the latest in science, technology, and sustainability.
Whether you’re a regular listener of STM Daily News or new to the podcast, this episode is packed with insights that will keep you hooked from start to finish. So, grab your headphones and get ready to explore the cutting edge of innovation and exploration with Rod Washington.
Visit STM Daily News Podcast to listen to the episode: https://stories-this-moment.castos.com/episodes/stm-daily-news-starliner-stuck-in-space-new-blue-origin-mission-so-cal-metrolink-innovations-and-more
Catch this episode and more on STM Daily News, where we bring you the stories that matter. Don’t miss out—tune in today!
Stories featured in this episode:
- After 60 Days in Space, Boeing Starliner Astronauts Face Extended Mission with Uncertain Return: https://stmdailynews.com/after-60-days-in-space-boeing-starliner-astronauts-face-extended-mission-with-uncertain-return/
- Blue Origin Announces Diverse Crew for Milestone 26th New Shepard Mission https://stmdailynews.com/blue-origin-announces-diverse-crew-for-milestone-26th-new-shepard-mission/
- California’s Zero-Emission Hydrogen Trains: A Step Toward Sustainable Transportation https://stmdailynews.com/all-aboard-the-future-californias-pioneering-hydrogen-powered-trains/
- July 19, 2024 CloudStrike Event: https://stmdailynews.com/services-resume-after-global-computer-outage-disrupts-valley-airports-and-phoenix-police/
- Boom Supersonic at the Farnborough International Airshow: https://stmdailynews.com/boom-supersonic-announces-major-advances-in-overture-aircraft-and-symphony-engine-development/
- Perseid Meteor Shower https://stmdailynews.com/stargazers-delight-the-perseid-meteor-shower-lights-up-the-summer-sky/
- Mike Sleeves Sliwa briefly talks PickleCon 2024 https://stmdailynews.com/mark-your-calendars-picklecon-2024-set-to-transform-kansas-city-into-a-pickleball-paradise/
Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Channel Update: https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
Get the latest stories and articles from STM Daily News right in your inbox with the STM & Coffee newsletter! Never miss a story with easy access to our blog. Get your subscription today!
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Check out the Sleeves SPR Merch Store for pickleball merchandise and more
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STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
https://stmdailynews.com/category/stories-this-moment
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Space and Tech
SpaceX to Move Crew Dragon Splashdowns to the West Coast: A New Era in Astronaut Returns
In a significant shift for future missions to the International Space Station (ISS), SpaceX has announced that its Crew Dragon splashdowns will be moving to the U.S. West Coast following multiple incidents involving space debris. This decision marks a pivotal change in the logistics of astronaut returns, moving away from the Atlantic Ocean and potentially concluding the era of East Coast splashdowns as we know it.
The Crew-9 Mission: A Milestone Launch
Scheduled to launch no earlier than August 18, the Crew-9 mission will feature a crew of four astronauts: Commander Zena Cardman and Pilot Nick Hague from NASA, alongside Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson (NASA) and Alexsandr Gorbunov from Roscosmos. This mission is poised to be the last NASA-led ISS operation to return astronauts to the Atlantic, making it a historic launch in the ongoing partnership between SpaceX and NASA.
The Debris Dilemma
SpaceX’s decision stems from repeated incidents involving the Crew Dragon’s trunk—an essential component housing fuel and electrical supplies—that has fallen back to Earth in uncontrolled descents. These debris falls have been problematic, landing in various locations ranging from Australia to North Carolina. The risk posed by such space debris not only raises safety concerns but also complicates recovery operations.
In a recent press conference, Sarah Walker, SpaceX’s Director of Dragon Mission Management, elaborated on the planned changes. “What we’ll do is implement a software change to complete the deorbit burn before jettisoning the trunk, like we did with Dragon-1,” she explained. This adjustment is intended to ensure that the trunk lands in unpopulated areas of the ocean, minimizing risks associated with falling debris.
Crew Dragon: A Safer, More Predictable Future
The shift to the Pacific coast is not merely a reaction to debris risks; it also offers strategic advantages. The West Coast tends to experience fewer extreme weather events and hurricanes, which could lead to more predictable recovery operations. This change is expected to enhance mission scheduling, allowing for smoother transitions from space to Earth.
SpaceX plans to relocate its Dragon recovery vessel to the Pacific sometime next year to facilitate this transition. The move will not only improve safety for the astronauts but also streamline the recovery process for future missions, starting potentially with Crew-10.
Looking Ahead
As SpaceX continues to innovate and adapt in the realm of human spaceflight, the decision to move Crew Dragon splashdowns to the West Coast reflects a commitment to safety and reliability. The upcoming Crew-9 mission will serve as a fitting close to an era of East Coast splashdowns while paving the way for a new chapter in astronaut return logistics.
With the space industry evolving at a rapid pace, it’s clear that adaptability will be key to ensuring the safety and success of future missions. As we look forward to the Crew-9 launch, the excitement builds not just for the mission itself but for the groundbreaking changes that lie ahead in the realm of space exploration.
Read the article on Space.com about SpaceX’s decision here: https://www.space.com/spacex-crew-9-iss-astronaut-space-junk-dragon
The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/
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aerospace
Boom Supersonic Announces Major Advances in Overture Aircraft and Symphony Engine Development
DENVER, July 23, 2024 – At the Farnborough International Airshow, Boom Supersonic, a trailblazer in supersonic technology, unveiled several strategic advancements in the development of its Overture airliner and Symphony engine programs. These developments signify significant progress in the company’s quest to launch the world’s fastest commercial airliner.
What’s new at Boom Supersonic?
Innovation in Cockpit Design
A highlight of the announcement is Boom’s innovative redesign of the cockpit, introducing a new flight deck that centers on enhancing pilot safety and interaction. This redesign includes the integration of the next-generation Honeywell Anthem avionics suite and a pioneering head-worn augmented reality system from Universal Avionics.
The new flight deck features force-feedback sidesticks, a first for commercial airliners, providing pilots with tactile feedback and greater control synchronization. It also boasts large 17-inch touchscreens that simplify cockpit management, focusing on software interfaces that streamline operations yet retain manual controls for critical flight functions.
Progress in Engine Development
The company also reported substantial progress on its proprietary Symphony engine, which has moved swiftly from design to hardware testing. Key developments include the initiation of rig-testing and the production of critical components like fuel nozzles and turbine center frames via 3D printing technologies.
With plans to have the first full-scale engine core operational in less than two years, Boom is setting an aggressive timeline for Symphony’s development. The engine core tests scheduled for late 2025 will evaluate the performance across compressor, combustor, and turbine sections, critical in fine-tuning the engine ahead of final certification.
Manufacturing Innovations
Boom announced an expanded partnership with StandardAero, which will assemble the Symphony engines at a new facility in San Antonio, Texas. Expected to produce up to 330 engines annually, this new setup emphasizes Boom’s commitment to scaling up operations efficiently and sustainably.
The collaboration with aerospace materials leader ATI, Inc. further boosts this aspect by providing advanced nickel-based superalloys vital for the high-pressure sections of the engine, ensuring durability and optimal performance under supersonic conditions.
Strategic Alliances and Future Outlook
Boom’s industry collaborations span key players across the aerospace technology landscape, positioning the Overture airliner as a frontrunner in the next era of commercial aviation. The company’s continued alignment with renowned suppliers and airlines underscores a shared vision for faster and more sustainable air travel.
With an ambitious goal to achieve FAA and EASA certification by the decade’s end, Boom Supersonic is steering closer to making ultra-fast commercial flights a reality. Currently, the Overture’s order book includes commitments from major carriers such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Japan Airlines, reflecting strong market confidence in Boom’s technology and vision.
As Boom Supersonic moves forward in redefining modern air travel, the industry watches keenly. Their approach not only promises to halve travel times but also aligns with evolving priorities around environmental sustainability, aiming for Overture to operate on 100% sustainable aviation fuel.
For more insights into Boom Supersonic and their transformative technologies, visit https://boomsupersonic.com.
Source: Boom Supersonic
Connect with Boom Supersonic on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube
The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/
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