SR-71 top speed

Space Sciences

SR-71 top speed

Posted by

Larry J

on

12/31/2002 11:15:10 AM

For years, there has been a lot of speculation about how fast an SR-71 could fly. The top speed was top secret for decades. However, the SR-71's pilot manual has been declassified and is available online here. The answer to the SR-71 top speed question is here. Cool.

Maximum Mach

Mach 3.2 is the design Mach number. Mach 3.17 is the maximum scheduled speed recommended for normal operations. However, when authorized by the Commander, speeds up to Mach 3.3 may be flown if the limit CIT of 427 degrees C is not exceeded.

So, it appears the limiting factor was compressor inlet temperature. Slick.

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Replies:

SR-71 top speed - Larry J - 12/31/2002 11:15:10 AM
- re: SR-71 top speed - crkrjk - 1/13/2005 6:43:33 PM
- Re: SR-71 top altitude - R.L. - 1/1/2003 7:34:30 AM
  - Re: SR-71 top altitude - Larry J - 1/2/2003 12:17:14 PM
    - Re: SR-71 top altitude - Kim Keller - 1/2/2003 4:04:03 AM
      - I've heard the A-12 was a little faster and could fly somewhat higher than an SR-71 - Larry J - 1/2/2003 5:05:03 AM
        Ahem, wasnt' that "40" years ago? :-) - RobVG - 1/2/2003 6:26:54 AM
        Yes, it was - Larry J - 1/3/2003 2:41:34 AM
  - 110,000 ft. n/t - Gary - 1/1/2003 8:06:10 AM
- Saw a D-21 - Gary - 1/1/2003 11:20:08 AM
  - Re: Saw a D-21 - Kim Keller - 1/2/2003 4:00:27 AM
- Re: SR-71 top speed - Bowser - 12/31/2002 3:17:30 AM
  - Brian Shul - MrPex - 1/1/2003 2:45:00 AM
    - Thanks. - Bowser - 1/1/2003 9:03:22 AM

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