Überschallknall

Überschallknall, often translated as sonic boom, is the sound associated with the shock waves created when an object travels through the air faster than the speed of sound. As an aircraft or other object accelerates past Mach 1, it compresses the air in front of it. This compressed air forms a cone-shaped shock wave. When this cone intersects the ground, it is heard as a sudden, loud noise, similar to an explosion or thunderclap.

The intensity of the sonic boom depends on several factors, including the aircraft's size, shape, altitude, and speed, as well as atmospheric conditions. While often perceived as a single loud bang, a sonic boom can sometimes be heard as two distinct sounds, known as a "double boom," resulting from the pressure waves created by the nose and tail of the aircraft. These pressure waves are a consequence of the sudden changes in air pressure as the object passes.

Sonic booms can cause damage to structures, particularly windows, and can disturb wildlife and people. For this reason, supersonic flight over populated areas is often restricted or prohibited. The phenomenon is a fundamental aspect of supersonic aerodynamics and is a key consideration in the design and operation of supersonic aircraft. Understanding and mitigating the effects of sonic booms is an ongoing area of research and engineering.