Oklahoma City sonic boom tests

Error creating thumbnail:

AN AERIAL VIEW OF THE LONE STAR AS IT MAKES ITS WAY THROUGH DOWNTOWN OKLAHOMA CITY ENROUTE FROM CHICAGO TO HOUSTON... - NARA - 556030

Oklahoma City Sonic Boom Tests were a series of experiments conducted by the United States Air Force in the mid-1960s, specifically from February 1964 to July 1964, to study the effects of sonic booms on urban areas. These tests, officially known as "Operation Bongo II," aimed to gather data on how repeated sonic booms would affect the structures of buildings, the behavior and morale of people, and the possible adaptation over time to these disturbances. Oklahoma City was chosen as the test site due to its location in the central United States, its varied weather conditions, and its cooperative local government and population.

Background

The concept of a sonic boom is generated when an aircraft flies faster than the speed of sound, creating shock waves that manifest as a high-energy sound resembling an explosion. Prior to the Oklahoma City tests, sonic booms were primarily experienced in remote areas or during specific military operations. However, with the advent of supersonic transport (SST) projects like the Concorde, understanding the impact of sonic booms on populated areas became a significant concern for both military and commercial aviation sectors.

Operation Bongo II

The Oklahoma City Sonic Boom Tests involved flying a F-104 Starfighter, capable of supersonic speeds, over the city in a predetermined pattern to generate sonic booms at regular intervals. Over the six months, the city experienced approximately 1,253 sonic booms, varying in intensity. The tests were designed to simulate what residents might experience if commercial supersonic flights became routine.

Impact on Oklahoma City

The reaction from the residents of Oklahoma City was mixed. Initially, there was a sense of pride in contributing to national research, but as the tests continued, the disruption caused by the sonic booms led to growing discontent. Complaints ranged from noise pollution, psychological stress, and physical damage to property. The extensive data collected provided valuable insights into the structural integrity of buildings, leading to improved construction standards. However, the adverse public reaction played a crucial role in shaping the regulations governing supersonic flight over populated areas.

Aftermath and Legacy

The Oklahoma City Sonic Boom Tests had a lasting impact on the development of supersonic transport. The negative public response contributed to the decision-making processes of regulatory bodies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which eventually imposed strict limitations on supersonic flight over land. These regulations have limited the operation of SSTs primarily to transoceanic routes, significantly affecting the commercial viability of supersonic passenger aircraft.

The tests also highlighted the importance of considering social and psychological factors in the introduction of new technologies. The lessons learned from Oklahoma City have influenced subsequent research on noise pollution and its effects on communities, leading to more comprehensive environmental impact assessments for aviation projects.

See Also

• Sonic boom
• Supersonic transport
• F-104 Starfighter
• Concorde