NASA released a photograph of test pilot Mike Lippert taken ahead of his first flight on the experimental X-59 aircraft. This supersonic research aircraft is being developed as part of the agency's program aimed at creating technologies that reduce the level of sonic boom when flying at supersonic speeds. The flight is scheduled for October 21, 2026. The X-59 is a key element of NASA's Quesst initiative, which aims to demonstrate that supersonic flights over populated areas are possible without creating the familiar loud sonic boom, replacing it instead with only a quiet sound resembling a knock. If successful, this data could be used to revise existing bans on commercial supersonic flights over land. The X-59 development program is being conducted by NASA in cooperation with Lockheed Martin and its Skunk Works division. The aircraft has a narrow and elongated fuselage, designed to reduce shock wave formation when reaching supersonic speeds. The aircraft's first flights are considered an important stage before conducting more extensive testing, including flights over various U.S. cities to gather data on how local residents perceive the sound.