What Goes 7000 mph? Exploring Hypersonic Speeds and Beyond
The straightforward answer to what goes 7,000 mph is the NASA X-43A, an experimental, unmanned hypersonic research vehicle. During its final flight, the X-43A achieved a speed of approximately 7,000 mph at an altitude of 110,000 feet, which is roughly Mach 10, setting a world record for an air-breathing vehicle. This incredible feat of engineering has pushed the boundaries of what we consider achievable in the realm of high-speed flight and opened new possibilities for aerospace technology.
Understanding Hypersonic Speed
The Mach Scale
Before delving deeper, it’s essential to understand the concept of Mach number. Mach 1 represents the speed of sound, which varies depending on the altitude and atmospheric conditions. At sea level, this is around 767 mph. Mach 10, therefore, is ten times the speed of sound. The speed of sound decreases as altitude increases, so Mach 10 at 275,000 feet is slower than at 110,000 feet, which is why you will see different speed in mph listed in some sources when talking about Mach. Hypersonic speed generally refers to speeds of Mach 5 and above.
The X-43A’s Achievement
The X-43A was specifically designed to test scramjet technology, which is an air-breathing propulsion system that doesn’t require the onboard oxidizer used by rockets. By utilizing oxygen directly from the atmosphere, it can potentially achieve even higher speeds with greater efficiency. The X-43A’s successful flight at approximately 7,000 mph (Mach 10) was a pivotal moment, demonstrating the viability of this technology.
Beyond the X-43A: What Else Approaches These Speeds?
While the X-43A holds the record for an air-breathing vehicle, other objects and technologies are pushing the limits of speed, often at even higher velocities.
Rocket-Powered Vehicles
Although not air-breathing, rocket-powered vehicles achieve much higher speeds than 7,000 mph, particularly those designed for space exploration. Spacecraft, for instance, need to reach an escape velocity of approximately 25,000 mph to break free from Earth’s gravitational pull and enter orbit or interplanetary space. The NASA Parker Solar Probe is currently the fastest human-made object, reaching speeds of well over 25,000 mph during its solar orbit.
Light Speed
The fastest thing in the universe is light, which travels at about 186,000 miles per second or roughly 670,616,629 mph. Nothing with mass can reach the speed of light, as it would require an infinite amount of energy.
Fastest Manned Aircraft
While the X-43A is not manned, it is worth mentioning that the fastest manned jet aircraft was the North American X-15, which achieved an unofficial speed record of Mach 6.70 (4,520 mph). The legendary SR-71 Blackbird, another manned vehicle, achieved speeds slightly above Mach 3.2 (2,500 mph). The X-43A’s flight at Mach 10 more than doubled and then tripled the top speed of the SR-71.
FAQs: Exploring the Realm of High Speeds
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding extreme speeds, encompassing air travel, space, and other relevant aspects.
1. What is the speed of sound at high altitude compared to sea level?
The speed of sound decreases as altitude increases due to changes in air density and temperature. So, Mach 10 would translate to a lower mph speed at 275,000 feet compared to 110,000 feet.
2. Has a manned aircraft ever achieved Mach 10?
No. Mach 10 has never been achieved by a manned aircraft. The X-43A was an unmanned vehicle.
3. What is NASA’s fastest speed achieved with a rocket-powered airplane?
The fastest speed achieved by a rocket-powered airplane was the X-15, reaching Mach 6.7.
4. How fast is the fastest manned air-breathing vehicle?
The SR-71 Blackbird is the fastest manned air-breathing vehicle, reaching slightly above Mach 3.2.
5. What is the fastest speed a human can withstand in space?
Speed in itself is not a problem for a human in space as long as it’s relatively constant in one direction. The issue is with acceleration (changes in speed), not the speed itself. Theoretically, a human could travel very close to the speed of light.
6. How fast is the fastest thing in the universe?
The fastest thing in the universe is light, travelling at approximately 186,000 miles per second (670,616,629 mph).
7. What are some of the fastest fighter jets?
Some of the fastest fighter jets include the X-15 (Mach 6.72, experimental), SR-71 Blackbird (Mach 3.4), Lockheed YF-12 (Mach 3.2), and MiG-25 Foxbat (Mach 3.2).
8. Is it possible for the human body to survive Mach 10?
The most likely answer is no. The rapid acceleration and extreme forces would be dangerous and likely fatal for the human body.
9. What is the fastest plane in the world?
The North American X-15 is considered the fastest plane, having achieved a speed of Mach 6.7 (4,520 mph), though it was rocket-powered and not strictly an “air-breathing” jet.
10. What is the speed of light in Mach?
The speed of light is approximately Mach 874,030 due to the significant difference in speed between sound and light.
11. What kind of G-forces can humans withstand?
Most people can handle 4-6G’s for a short time. Fighter pilots can briefly handle around 9G’s. Sustained exposure to even 6G’s would be fatal.
12. Is there a jet faster than a bullet?
Yes. The US military is developing hypersonic jets that could travel at five times the speed of sound or higher, which is faster than some bullets.
13. What is the fastest speed ever achieved on land?
The official Outright Land Speed Record stands at 763.035 mph (1227.985 km/h).
14. What is the slowest plane in the world?
The MacCready Gossamer Condor and MacCready Gossamer Albatross, human-powered aircraft, can fly as slow as 8-9 miles per hour.
15. How fast does darkness travel?
Darkness doesn’t travel, but is the absence of light. Therefore, when light is removed from an area, darkness is present, so darkness can appear to travel as fast as light.
Conclusion
The X-43A’s achievement of 7,000 mph (Mach 10) remains a pinnacle in the history of aerospace, representing a significant step forward in the realm of hypersonic flight. While other objects and technologies can exceed these speeds, the X-43A’s accomplishment highlights the potential of air-breathing hypersonic technology. As we continue to explore the boundaries of what’s possible, these advancements will undoubtedly shape the future of aerospace and potentially lead to faster and more efficient means of travel and exploration.