NASA Planning Sonic Boom Testing In Texas’ Gulf Coast Written 18 April 2018

The AP reports that NASA is planning to conduct “sonic boom tests” over the Gulf of Mexico off Galveston, Texas, as part of a new study to “produce a quieter boom.” NASA Commercial Supersonic Technology Project Manager Peter Cohen explained that the study will help in the design of supersonic commercial aircraft that can break the sound barrier with less disturbance to those on the ground. NASA will “collect data and enlist volunteers to react to the booms.” Cohen added that the tests are not expected to cause disruption, and that the sonic booms should sound like distant thunder. 
More Info (Associated Press)