Supersonic compressor startup support system

A supersonic compressor includes a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, a fluid conduit extending therebetween, and at least one supersonic compressor rotor disposed within the fluid conduit and including a fluid flow channel that includes a throat portion. The supersonic compressor also includes a fluid control device coupled in fluid communication with at least one fluid source and an inlet of the fluid flow channel. The fluid control device channels a first fluid to the fluid flow channel inlet. The first fluid has a first plurality of fluid properties that facilitate attainment of supersonic flow of the first fluid in the throat portion during a first operational mode. The fluid control device further channels a second fluid to the fluid flow channel inlet. The second fluid has a second plurality of fluid properties that permit maintenance of supersonic flow of the second fluid in the throat portion.