NASA ER-2 Aircraft Prepares for High-Altitude Geological Mapping Mission

USA: NASA ER-2 Aircraft Prepares for High-Altitude Geological Mapping Mission

A high‑altitude research flight is scheduled to depart from Edwards Air Force Base in California on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, carrying the ER‑2 aircraft that will support the Geological Earth Mapping Experiment (GEMx). The mission aims to collect detailed atmospheric and surface data to improve geological models. The flight is part of NASA’s ongoing effort to enhance Earth observation capabilities.

Mission Overview

The GEMx mission focuses on acquiring high‑resolution measurements of the Earth’s crust and atmosphere using advanced sensor suites. By flying at altitudes above 20 km, the ER‑2 platform can capture data unavailable to lower‑flying aircraft, enabling scientists to refine interpretations of geological processes.

Aircraft and Crew

The ER‑2, a modified U‑2 spy plane, is equipped with a suite of lidar, radar, and spectrometer instruments. Pilot Kirt Stallings, an experienced test‑pilot for NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center, will operate the aircraft. Ground support staff will monitor flight parameters and instrument performance from the control center.

Scientific Goals

Researchers plan to map variations in mineral composition, assess surface deformation, and measure atmospheric constituents that influence remote‑sensing signals. Data collected during the flight will be integrated with satellite observations to produce comprehensive geological maps.

Flight Schedule

The aircraft will be readied in a transport vehicle before boarding, as observed at the launch site. After a pre‑flight check, the ER‑2 is expected to take off within the morning window, conduct a series of predefined flight legs over target regions, and land by late afternoon. Post‑flight analysis will commence immediately upon data retrieval.

Anticipated Impact

Results from the GEMx flight are expected to enhance predictive models for natural hazards such as earthquakes and landslides. The mission also supports the development of next‑generation remote‑sensing technologies that could benefit both scientific research and commercial applications.

Dieser Bericht basiert auf Informationen von NASA, lizenziert unter Public Domain (U.S. Government Work).