The flights also will test two new scientific instruments, a high spectral resolution Digital Array Scanned Interferometer and a high spatial resolution Airborne Real-Time Imaging System. The flights will be conducted at altitudes between 22,000 and 49,000 feet. Calif. Pathfinder recently set an altitude record for propeller-driven flight of over 71,500 feet. We beat our altitude milestone by 6,500 feet in the first two flights this summer and demonstrated the capability for science mission demonstrations in a remote, tropical location. Pathfinder is a flying wing with a span of 99 feet.
Small pods extending below the wing's center section can carry a variety of scientific sensors.
Solar arrays on the upper wing surface can provide as much as 7,200 watts of power at high noon on a summer day to power the craft's six electric motors and other electronic systems. A backup battery system can provide power for up to five hours to fly the craft after sundown. The science activity is being coordinated by NASA's Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Calif., and involves researchers at the University of Hawaii and University of California. The USS Arizona Memorial Trophy is a Navy-wide award presented to the ship achieving the greatest combat readiness. The Battenberg Cup is a symbol of operational excellence in the Atlantic Fleet.