Ep 13. Flying Supersonic

In this episode titled "Flying Supersonic," NOVA takes a deep dive into the world of supersonic flight. The episode starts off with an overview of the history of supersonic flight and the excitement and mystery surrounding it. The show then moves on to explore the consequences of breaking the sound barrier and the challenges that must be overcome to achieve supersonic flight.

One of the key challenges to achieving supersonic flight is the Sonic Boom, the loud noise that is produced when an aircraft breaks the sound barrier. The show explains the science behind the Sonic Boom and how it can be mitigated with advanced technologies such as the "low-boom" aircraft design. NOVA also discusses the regulatory challenges of supersonic flight and how these challenges are slowing down the development of supersonic travel.

The episode then moves on to the current state of supersonic flight technology and the efforts being made to bring this technology to the market. There is a discussion of some of the most promising start-ups in the industry and the challenges they are facing in terms of raising funds and gaining regulatory approval. NOVA also explores the potential benefits of supersonic travel, including faster travel times and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional air travel.

Another important aspect of the episode is the discussion of the impact of supersonic flight on the environment. NOVA explains how supersonic travel can have a negative impact on the ozone layer and explores the potential solutions to this problem. The show also discusses the potential impact of supersonic travel on local communities and the efforts being made to minimize this impact.

Finally, the episode ends with a look towards the future of supersonic flight and what we can expect in the years to come. NOVA explores the potential for supersonic flight to revolutionize air travel and the potential benefits for both travelers and the environment. Overall, "Flying Supersonic" is an informative and engaging episode that provides a deep dive into the world of supersonic flight.