Faster than hypersonic is high-hypersonic flight. This speed regime encompasses speeds significantly exceeding Mach 10.
Understanding Flight Speed Regimes
Flight speeds are often classified using Mach numbers, which represent an object's speed relative to the speed of sound. Mach 1 is the speed of sound, approximately 1,225 km/h (761 mph) at sea level. As an object moves faster, it enters different speed regimes, each with unique aerodynamic challenges and characteristics.
The speed classifications relevant to speeds beyond hypersonic are detailed in the table below:
| Regime | Flight Speed (Mach) | Flight Speed (km/h) |
|---|---|---|
| Supersonic | 1.2–5.0 | 1,470–6,126 |
| Hypersonic | 5.0–10.0 | 6,126–12,251 |
| High-hypersonic | 10.0–25.0 | 12,251–30,626 |
As shown, while hypersonic flight typically refers to speeds between Mach 5 and Mach 10, high-hypersonic flight extends from Mach 10 up to Mach 25. This classification highlights the extreme velocities involved, where atmospheric conditions and material stresses become even more critical than in lower supersonic or hypersonic ranges.
