In late 2010, NASA awarded a contract to Boeing to study advanced concept designs for aircraft that could take to the skies in the year 2025. The final design needs to meet NASA goals for less noise, cleaner exhaust, lower fuel consumption and fly up to 85 percent of the speed of sound. It must also cover a range of about 7,000 miles and carry between 50,000 and 100,000 pounds of payload. Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman have also received similar contract awards.