Supersonic flight effects explained

[PALADIN85020]

I thought this might be of interest - it explains various visual and auditory effects when aircraft exceed the speed of sound. Probably also true of firearms projectiles launched at supersonic velocities.

Enjoy!

John

Supersonic Flight, Sonic Booms - YouTube

 

[W.E.G.]

A shock wave travels with a supersonic bullet.

While traveling at greater than the speed of sound, the shock wave is ahead of the bullet (which seems counter-intuitive - but is a fact).

As the bullet decreases speed through the threshold of the speed of sound, the shock wave migrates to the rear of the bullet and dissipates.

To get from the front of the bullet to the rear of the bullet, the shock wave must traverse the bullet from front to rear. This can disturb the flight of the bullet. The flight of some bullets seems to be affected more than others when this happens. The most common effect of this transition is inducement of yaw in the rotation, even to the point of causing the rear of the bullet to overtake the nose of the bullet.

 

[gaucho1]

Great visuals.

 

[26Ford]

I'm going to miss the shuttle returns to earth and the 2 BOOMS upon entering the atmosphere. I'm only about 40 miles from the space center, and believe me when I tell you it was loud, I mean it. Thanks for posting that video, 26

 

[Edmo]

Cool video...

I'm fortunate to have attended USAF pilot training when every pilot flew the T-38 and got to go supersonic at least once.

From the cockpit, it is really a non-event. However, having heard a supersonic boom from a relatively low pass it is an eye (read: ear) opener!

Edmo

 

[PALADIN85020]

Cool video...

I'm fortunate to have attended USAF pilot training when every pilot flew the T-38 and got to go supersonic at least once.

From the cockpit, it is really a non-event. However, having heard a supersonic boom from a relatively low pass it is an eye (read: ear) opener!

Edmo

Way back in 1960, as part of my ROTC summer camp training at Fort Lewis, we were treated to a low-pass flyover by a supersonic F-101. Guaranteed to make the cadets jump out of their socks and/or induce an immediate call of nature... the surprise and incredible "boom" were unforgettable. I'm glad that I was never on the receiving end of a supersonic plane flyover again - talk about "shock and awe."

John

 

[Skip48]

That was a really interesting video. Jet fighter pilots rule! Thanks for posting. Skip48