Optimum Signature Shaping for Low Sonic Boom

The reference 1 “Sonic Boom Minimization” theory determined three signature shapes for minimizing the impact of sonic boom. These shapes are improved upon through more recent analytical findings, improved loudness calculation and more shape variations—explored in an optimization framework. Final shapes all achieve nearly an 8 PLdB improvement over a SEEB minimum shock signature. After the optimization, a higher fidelity Burgers-type rounding analysis was run on the primary shape parameter, indicating the improvement may halve to 4 PLdB. Further shape improvement is possible and is planned to be combined with Burger-type analysis in the future.