Summary Points
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Flight Schedule: From June 22 to July 2, NASA will conduct low-altitude atmospheric research flights over cities in the East Coast (Philadelphia, Baltimore, Richmond) and California (Los Angeles Basin, Salton Sea, Central Valley).
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Specialized Maneuvers: The research aircraft will fly below typical commercial altitudes, performing vertical spirals and low-altitude flybys near power plants and urban areas to collect surface air samples.
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Student Involvement: The flights are part of NASA’s Student Airborne Research Program (SARP), offering undergraduate students hands-on experience in atmospheric science and aircraft operations.
- Safety and Coordination: Conducted in complex airspace, the flights require tight coordination and crew resource management to ensure safe execution of sophisticated maneuvers.
NASA Aircraft to Make Low-Altitude Flights in Mid-Atlantic, California
NASA plans to conduct a series of low-altitude flights in the mid-Atlantic and California, aiming to gather valuable atmospheric data. From June 22 to July 2, two research aircraft will operate over urban areas and natural landscapes. This initiative focuses on cities such as Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Richmond, as well as the Los Angeles Basin and Central Valley.
The flights will take place at altitudes below typical commercial levels. Pilots will use specialized maneuvers, including vertical spirals between 1,000 and 10,000 feet. They will circle over power plants, landfills, and other urban locations. Additionally, the aircraft will make low-altitude flybys along runways to collect air samples close to the surface.
NASA’s Student Airborne Research Program (SARP) runs this project, involving two aircraft: the P-3 Orion and a King Air B200. The P-3, based at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia, hosts advanced scientific instruments. Each coast will support around 40 hours of focused science flights.
Meanwhile, students participating in the SARP gain real-world experience. They assist in operating the science instruments on board the aircraft. This learning experience occurs in some of the most complex airspace in the country, demanding tight coordination among crew members.
Officials emphasize the importance of precision and safety during these flights. They believe the program inspires the next generation of scientists and engineers. By engaging students in data collection, NASA is not only advancing atmospheric research but also nurturing future talent in STEM fields.
Find out more about the Student Airborne Research Program at nasa.gov/science/earth-science/early-career-opportunities/student-airborne-research-program.
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