Breaking the sound barrier, a pilot's thrilling tale

Tim Hibbetts, a pilot who has flown faster than the speed of sound, describes the exhilarating experience of being launched from an aircraft carrier at night. He details the intense acceleration from zero to 150 miles per hour in just 2.5 seconds, the sensory overload from the lights and sounds, and the momentary silence after the catapult launch. The narrative contrasts the pilot's experience with that of an observer on the ground, highlighting the delayed sound of the jet and the physical impact of the noise. The experience is both thrilling and disorienting, but ultimately, the pilot regains composure and continues the mission.

What is the initial speed increase experienced by the pilot during the launch?

• From 50 to 100 miles per hour

• From 50 to 150 miles per hour

• From zero to 100 miles per hour

• From zero to 150 miles per hour

What kind of lights are described on the carrier at night?

• Blue LED lights

• White halogen lights

• Green fluorescent lights

• Orange sodium lights

What happens to the lights around the pilot as the catapult launches?

• They become brighter

• They turn off completely

• They start to flicker

• They streak past the pilot

What is the experience of a person watching the aircraft from outside?

• They see nothing but hear the sound

• They hear the sound immediately

• They see the aircraft but hear nothing initially

• They feel the vibrations first

What sensation does the delayed sound of the aircraft create?

• A thunderous impact that compresses the chest

• A sense of relief

• A gentle rumble

• A calming effect