Ask an Explainer
Q:
How do you overcome the effects of a shock wave?
A:
Supersonic airplanes are engineered to reduce the impact of shock waves. The materials used and the shape of the aircraft help minimize the damage.
Spacecraft have a different shape that creates a different type of shock wave which doesn't touch the vehicle for the most part, shielding it from the high temperatures of reentry.
Posted on April 6, 2013 at 10:20 am
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