Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) conducted its first hypersonic test on 19 November, carried out by the Institute of Plasmas and Nuclear Fusion (IPFN), testing speeds comparable to crossing mainland Portugal from north to south in just over five minutes. The experiments are aimed at improving understanding of rocket re‑entry and related technologies. This is a research milestone for Portugal's aerospace and defence science base, with little immediate effect for daily life but potential long‑term industrial and academic implications. Science and tech watchers and industry stakeholders should note the progress at IST.
IST completes first hypersonic test
Thursday, 22 January 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
Instituto Superior Técnico (the engineering school of the University of Lisbon, known as IST) is Portugal's largest engineering and technology school, founded in 1911, and a leading center for applied research. IST said it carried out a hypersonic test whose speed would cover mainland Portugal north–south in just over five minutes, showing the institute's work in advanced aerospace research.
The Institute of Plasmas and Nuclear Fusion (Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear or IPFN) is a research unit based at IST that studies plasma physics, fusion energy and related technologies. IPFN works on experimental projects and collaborations that can include high-speed propulsion and advanced materials research, which relate to tests like the recent hypersonic experiment.
