The extensive utilization of the Drop Tower is evident in the fact that over 19,000 research drops have been performed to date in support of numerous investigations. The entire assembly falls freely and unguided in the open environment of the tower. The experiment is isolated from aerodynamic drag as it is contained within, but not attached to the drag shield. During the drop, the entire assembly falls 24.1 meters, and the experiment falls freely a distance of 20 cm within the drag shield. The package is decelerated in a 10 foot tall air bag.
Battery packs provide onboard power to the experiment.
Data is acquired by high speed motion picture cameras, video cameras, and on-board computers. Normal operations provide the opportunity for up to 12 drops per day to be performed. Tests are performed by a facility operator and an investigator.