You may have noticed that NASAтАЩs X-59 has a shadow тАУ another┬аaircraft┬аtrailing it from a safe distance. That sidekick is known as a тАЬchase plane,тАЭ and it has┬аan important role┬аin┬аNASAтАЩs Quesst mission.
Chase planes are commonly used during the flight testing of major experimental┬аaircraft, providing an extra layer of observation and support for test pilots.
The X-59тАЩs chase is either an F-15 or F/A-18, piloted by another test pilot, often with a photographer or videographer in the second seat. The chase planeтАЩs primary role is to help with communication between the two pilots and control room and┬аmonitor┬аthe X-59 while it hits different test┬аobjectives, such as reaching a range of speeds and altitudes while the team collects data. In later phases of the┬аQuesst┬аmission, the X-59 will fly solo more┬аfrequently┬аbut require a safety chase plane for some flights.
Watch the latest┬а59 seconds on NASAтАЩs X-59 with lead X-59 test pilot Nils Larson to learn more about the job of the chase plane and see them in action.
Quesst Video
X-59 in 59
Welcome to 59 seconds on X-59! In this series, test pilot Nils Larson takes you on a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to fly the X-59.
