NASA and the Evolution of the Hush Kit: A Technical Solution to a Social Problem

Since the beginning of aviation, aircraft noise has been a problem. Noise pollution is not simply an environmental problem, but may also be a psychological problem, a medical problem and a sociological problem. It can also affect productivity and result in a heavy financial burden on society (Gillen, 2003). Fundamentally, though, aircraft engine noise is a technological problem and NASA's approach to aircraft engine noise abatement was to find a technological solution.