Supersonic Flight & Transonic Phenomena

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Objects approaching the speed of sound (approximately 760 mph or 661 knots) can create distinct and unusual visual effects in the air.
  • The article features compiled footage of various high-speed aircraft (F-14s, F-18s, SR-71) and an Atlas Rocket launch to illustrate these phenomena.
  • AVweb researched these visual effects, including consulting sources at NASA.
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Original, Exclusive Videos from AVweb |Reader-Submitted & Viral Videos

Sound travels at about 760 miles per hour, or 340 meters per second and about 661 knots on an average day at sea level. And sometimes, you can almost see it. Going close to that speed through air can cause some unusual visual effects. This compiled footage includes F-14s, standard and Blue Angels F-18s, plus the SR-71 and an Atlas Rocket launch. AVweb contacted sources at NASA to research the phenomena.

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