X-43

The X-43 is an experimental unmanned aircraft developed by NASA to test new high-speed flight technologies. It’s part of the Hyper-X program aimed at researching scramjet engines, which can propel vehicles at hypersonic speeds (above Mach 5). Launched from a jet, the X-43 accelerates to very high velocities in the upper atmosphere, helping scientists study how to achieve faster and more efficient travel. Its successful tests contribute to future space access, national security, and advanced aerospace technologies. The X-43’s mission is to push the limits of our understanding of hypersonic flight and propulsion.