Explore the fascinating world of supersonic flight in this 32-minute video from The Great Courses series "The Science of Flight." Discover the principles behind breaking the sound barrier, from the formation of shockwaves to the development of swept-back wings. Learn how the same phenomena causing mirages on hot streets relate to aircraft reaching Mach 1. Delve into the history of supersonic flight, including the invention of jet engines, the X-1 flight, and the evolution of aircraft design. Examine the impact of wing breadth on shock development and the research that led to the iconic SR-71 Blackbird. Gain insights into the FAA's ban on non-military supersonic flight over the US and the limitations of supersonic aircraft design.