Aerospace

F/A-18 Hornet Joins NASA-Owned F-15 to Chase After the X-59 Supersonic Aircraft

A F/A-18 aircraft that NASA purchased from the U.S. Navy in 2021 has undergone a thorough reconstruction according to NASA. In order to follow or “chase” the supersonic X-59 aircraft, this rejuvenated aircraft will join the Armstrong Flight Research Center’s fleet.

NASA is presently building the supersonic X-59 QueSST aircraft to show its dedication to cutting-edge aeronautical research. The installation of an engine in the X-59 marked an important project milestone in November 2022.

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Additionally, it was revealed in January 2023 that the X-59’s first flight is planned to take place by the end of 2023, representing a significant advancement in NASA’s quest for supersonic flight capabilities.

NASA first stated it would make use of an F-15 in 2021. This aircraft will track the X-59 as it travels at supersonic speeds in an effort to measure and display the sound waves it generates. The F-15, run by NASA, has a gadget on its nose that allows it to maintain a close enough distance for that to occur. The Airborne Location Integrating Geospatial Navigation System (ALIGNS) was created to make it possible for the fighter plane’s pilot to coordinate maneuvers while flying behind the target at supersonic speeds.

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It turns out that the F-15 is not sufficient for data collection on its alone. Both the Eagle and the Super Hornet will pursue the X-59. NASA will use the F/A-18D as a platform for photographers and videographers who will attempt to capture supersonic flight.

The aircraft underwent an overhaul procedure required after a certain amount of flight hours in order to participate in NASA Armstrong missions. This included removing the wings, inspecting for corrosion, modernizing systems, and performing other critical checks and service.

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Aerospace

Boeing’s Aurora Flight Sciences Expands Columbus Plant by 50,000 Sqft

Credit:Aurora Flight Sciences

Aurora Flight Sciences, a subsidiary of Boeing, has launched a significant expansion of its manufacturing facility near the Golden Triangle Regional Airport in Columbus, Mississippi.

This ambitious project will add 50,000 square feet of new space, renovate 40,000 square feet of the existing facility, and introduce advanced automation equipment, robotics, and non-destructive inspection technologies. mcas boeing enhancements will support the growing demand for Aurora’s aerospace systems business.

Since its establishment, Aurora Mississippi has specialized in the production of advanced composite components and assemblies for both military and commercial aircraft. The company first opened in 2005 at Mississippi State University’s Raspet Flight Research Laboratory in Starkville before relocating to its current site in Columbus two years later.

Initially occupying 21,000 square feet, the facility has since grown to encompass over 120,000 square feet, featuring cutting-edge manufacturing technologies such as automated fiber placement. Aurora’s latest expansion is a strategic investment aimed at increasing production capacity for composite components like boeing titanium used in executive jets and the MQ-25TM Stingray composite skins, a key project for its parent company, Boeing.

Additionally, the facility will produce components for NASA’s X-66 sustainable flight demonstrator aircraft, further diversifying its portfolio. Currently employing around 100 full-time staff in Mississippi, Aurora plans to hire more than 60 additional team members by the end of 2025.

Aurora’s expansion project underscores its commitment to Mississippi’s growing aerospace and advanced manufacturing sector. The company maintains strong partnerships with Mississippi State University (MSU) and East Mississippi Community College (EMCC), contributing to research, higher education, and workforce development in advanced manufacturing.

Additionally, Aurora actively supports local K-12 STEM education through summer camps and collaborates with high school vocational education programs. The expansion and renovation project will be carried out in phases over the next two years, with completion expected by 2026. This development marks a significant milestone in Aurora’s ongoing growth and its role in advancing aerospace manufacturing in Mississippi.