Dawn Aerospace’s Mk-II Aurora, a rocket-powered autonomous aircraft, achieved Mach 1.1, breaking the sound barrier during a test flight over Glentanner Aerodrome in New Zealand. This milestone, recorded last November 12, marks a significant leap in the development of supersonic and hypersonic aviation, an area largely dormant since the retirement of the Concorde in 2003.
The Mk-II Aurora, measuring 16 feet (4.8 meters) with a wingspan of 13 feet (4 meters) and a dry weight of 880 pounds (200 kilograms), reached an altitude of 82,500 feet (25,150 meters), more than twice the cruising altitude of commercial airliners. It also set a new climb rate record, ascending to 66,000 feet (20 kilometers) in just under two minutes—surpassing a record held by a modified F-15 Strike Eagle since the 1970s.
We just made history! Twice!
On Nov 12, the Mk-II Aurora flew supersonic!
We hit Mach 1.1 & and an altitude of 82,500 ft in an 85 deg climb 💪
PLUS, we set a new record as the fastest aircraft to 66,000 ft in just 118.6 seconds—beating a 50-year-old record! 📷
Learn more:… pic.twitter.com/re7a7BRrHT
— Dawn Aerospace (@DawnAerospace) November 18, 2024
The uncrewed aircraft made a second flight six hours later, demonstrating operational readiness and efficiency.
Dawn Aerospace plans to use the Mk-II for atmospheric research, Earth observation, microgravity testing, and high-speed flight trials. These operations will set the foundation for the development of the Mk-III, a two-stage vehicle capable of delivering over one ton of payload into orbit.
Dawn’s ultimate goal includes reaching hypersonic speeds of Mach 3.5 or higher, positioning the company to expand into international markets for both commercial and research applications.
“This milestone sets the stage for Aurora to become the world’s highest and fastest-flying aircraft, redefining what’s possible in aviation,” Dawn Aerospace CEO Stefan Powell said.
Dawn Aerospace’s achievements come amid renewed global interest in supersonic and hypersonic flight. The aerospace industry is exploring quieter, more efficient, and sustainable designs for high-speed travel. American competitor Boom Supersonic is developing the Overture, a passenger supersonic airliner expected to carry 64 to 80 passengers at Mach 1.7.
