South Bend, IN – A new era in hypersonic research has arrived for the Midwest, as the University of Notre Dame unveiled the world’s first Large Mach 10 Quiet Wind Tunnel—a landmark facility set to advance aerospace innovation and workforce training across the region and the United States.
According to Notre Dame Research, the facility’s grand opening on Saturday, November 9, 2024, brought together leading figures in defense, government, and academia for a dedication ceremony. Designed to deliver high-quality flow for testing hypersonic flight dynamics, turbulence, and propulsion, the tunnel will support critical research, bolster economic growth, and provide unique opportunities for students and industry partners throughout the Midwest.
“This facility is a testament to Notre Dame’s commitment to boundary-breaking research and will serve as a catalyst for innovation across the Midwest,” said Jeffrey F. Rhoads, vice president for research at Notre Dame. Ambassador Joe Donnelly and Admiral Christopher Grady joined other dignitaries to highlight the tunnel’s potential to strengthen national defense and foster regional competitiveness.
Admiral Grady emphasized that advances in hypersonic technology made possible by the new tunnel will impact not only military capabilities but also commercial aerospace, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The tunnel is expected to help alleviate backlogs at Department of Defense testing facilities and accelerate the region’s role in aerospace development.
The wind tunnel was designed by Professor Thomas Corke and his team of students and researchers, overcoming pandemic-related supply challenges with help from Midwest manufacturers. Funding came from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
With this facility, Notre Dame and the Midwest are poised to become national leaders in hypersonic research, supporting new graduate programs and opening doors for students pursuing careers in aerospace, engineering, and research. “Building a pipeline for talent into future careers in hypersonic systems is crucial,” Corke said, reaffirming the Midwest’s growing influence in next-generation technology.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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