A once-in-a-lifetime shot that makes the invisible visible. During XB-1’s 13th flight, we partnered with NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration to take this Schlieren image of XB-1 pushing through the air at supersonic speeds. Captured by NASA teams on the ground, it documents the changing air density around XB-1 and the resulting shock wave. Taking Schlieren images requires ideal conditions, timing, and exceptional flying. Boom Chief Test Pilot Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenburg positioned XB-1 at an exact time in a precise location over the Mojave Desert to enable NASA to photograph XB-1 flying in front of the sun, documenting the changing air density around the aircraft at speeds exceeding Mach 1. Using waypoints computed by NASA, the XB-1 team developed avionics software to guide Geppetto to the precise points in space that XB-1 would have to fly to eclipse the sun. NASA used ground telescopes with special filters that detect air distortions to capture the image. First developed by German physicist August Toepler in 1864, Schlieren photography is now used in aeronautical engineering to show how light bends around pressure differences, revealing the physics of flight. Thanks to our partners at NASA for capturing the kind of image photographers (and pilots) chase for a lifetime.
Nice…. But, Concorde did all this 50 years ago…. Juat saying
A stunning glimpse into supersonic flight!?Capturing a?Schlieren image?at Mach 1 is a remarkable achievement—combining precision flying, advanced aerodynamics, and cutting-edge imaging technology. A true testament to innovation and the science of high-speed flight! ???? #AerospaceEngineering #SupersonicSpeed #InnovationInFlight
Did it differ from scale model (with air driven fans to replace engines) wind tunnel Schlieren pictures?
As an aviation photographer, I have to say—this is absolutely mind-blowing! ?? I'm beyond impressed by the level of professionalism, precision, and, let’s be honest, the jaw-dropping equipment behind this shot. I mean, who doesn’t secretly envy NASA’s ability to capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments with the perfect timing and gear?! ??? Kudos to everyone involved in making this possible – this is definitely one for the books!
Were we able to capture a Schlieren of any of the shock waves dissipating as described in previous posts?
Well done, Boom Supersonic and NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration!
Beautiful photo. And of course none of those shock waves propagated down to ground level
Thank you for Schlieren this!
- How was your day in the office? - Not much; used the Sun as the backdrop so NASA can take a shot of me breaking the sound barrier. How about you?
Test Engineer at Whisper Aero
1 周Now, derive the Mach number from the initial shock angle.