NASA and Boeing’s ‘clean’ plane completes model testing

Nov. 27 () –

NASA and Boeing’s SFD (Sustainable Flight Demonstrator) project to build a ‘zero emissions’ aircraft, known as the X-66, has completed a key phase of wind tunnel testing.

The X-66 is an experimental aircraft that aims to achieve more sustainable flight primarily through the design of its wings. Known as a transonic truss-braced wing, the concept combines extra-long wings stabilized with diagonal struts; a design that could result in a more fuel-efficient airliner.

But before a full-size demo version of the X-66 can fly, his team will need to conduct tests with several smaller models of the aircraft, NASA reports.

NASA’s goal with recent wind tunnel testing is to validate the aerodynamics of the aircraft design.

The team conducted the tests using a model of the aircraft with a wingspan of almost 2 meters placed on the 4 meter Low Speed ​​Wind Tunnel at Langley Research Center of the agency. During testing, the team captured measurements of forces such as lift and drag in many aerodynamic configurations and flight conditions.

Project team members are analyzing the data and using it to determine if changes or adjustments are needed to the design for future wind tunnel testing. Ultimately, data from these tests will ensure the configuration is ready for high-speed wind tunnel testing in the next phase.

The SFD project is a NASA effort to develop more efficient airframes as the country moves towards sustainable aviation. The project seeks to inform the next generation of single-aisle airliners, the most common aircraft in commercial aviation fleets around the world. Boeing and NASA are partnering to develop the experimental demonstration aircraft.

NASA plans to complete testing of the project by the late 2020s, so that the technologies and designs demonstrated by the project can inform industry decisions. about the next generation of single-aisle aircraft that could enter service in the 2030s.