hypersonics

Plasma airspike

Definition

A system using a plasma torch to ionize air ahead of a hypersonic vehicle, creating a cushion between the shock wave and aircraft skin that reduces drag by approximately 50%

Related Theories (1)

The Aurora Spy Plane Uses Plasma Airspike Technology Developed by Czysz

The Aurora hypersonic spy plane, referenced in budget documents but officially denied, uses the plasma airspike and MHD technology developed by Paul Czysz's team at McDonnell Douglas in the 1960s. Czysz stated his team 'could build it' and had extensive wind tunnel data on plastic models. The plasma airspike reduces drag by 50%, enabling sustained Mach 6+ flight. This technology was developed for government contracts but kept classified.

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