Sonic boom prediction and measurement analysis methods for certification of quiet supersonic aircraft

New sonic boom noise certification procedures for quiet supersonic aircraft are needed as part of proposed regulations to potentially amend the ban on civil supersonic overland flight worldwide. In preparation for developing these procedures, analyses are performed on an existing N-wave dataset to exercise various methodologies. Six noise metrics (PL, ASEL, BSEL, DSEL, ESEL, and ISBAP) are calculated for the measurements obtained on the ground and aloft above the turbulent boundary layer. Predictions are performed for these same locations under test day conditions and compared to measurements. In addition, predictions are performed under standard day conditions to facilitate assessment without the effects of real-world winds and atmospheric turbulence. Methods for validating prediction tools or correcting for the atmospheric effects are discussed, and limitations of these methods are identified. Ideas on robust methods for implementation in certification procedures are proposed.New sonic boom noise certification procedures for quiet supersonic aircraft are needed as part of proposed regulations to potentially amend the ban on civil supersonic overland flight worldwide. In preparation for developing these procedures, analyses are performed on an existing N-wave dataset to exercise various methodologies. Six noise metrics (PL, ASEL, BSEL, DSEL, ESEL, and ISBAP) are calculated for the measurements obtained on the ground and aloft above the turbulent boundary layer. Predictions are performed for these same locations under test day conditions and compared to measurements. In addition, predictions are performed under standard day conditions to facilitate assessment without the effects of real-world winds and atmospheric turbulence. Methods for validating prediction tools or correcting for the atmospheric effects are discussed, and limitations of these methods are identified. Ideas on robust methods for implementation in certification procedures are proposed.