Hypersonic missiles travel at least five times the speed of sound (Mach 5 or 6,125 kilometers per hour) or more. Flying along the edge of space while gliding and maneuvering these missiles would strike targets with unprecedented speed and precision. Once operational, these missiles would make current strategic missile defenses systems obsolete, they will be able to avoid triggering early-warning systems or detection by radar as well their speed shall complicate interception.
Militaries are now developing various defensive strategies and solutions to counter the threat of hypersonic weapons. Glide Breaker intends to advance the United States’ means to counter hypersonic vehicles. According to a DARPA Broad Agency Announcement, released on 6 November 2018, Glide Breaker will develop an enabling technology that “is critical for enabling an advanced interceptor capable of engaging manoeuvring hypersonic threats in the upper atmosphere”.
“The objective of the Glide Breaker program is to further the capability of the United States to defend against supersonic and the entire class of hypersonic threats,” DARPA said in an announcement for the July 2018 “Proposers Day.” “Of particular interest are component technologies that radically reduce risk for development and integration of an operational, hard-kill system.”
Glide Breaker could be used against new Russian and Chinese weapons, including Moscow’s new Mach 27 Avangard hypersonic missile. Glide Breaker’s core objective is deterrence. “A key figure of merit is deterrence: the ability to create large uncertainty for the adversary’s projected probability of mission success and effective raid size,” DARPA said in its Proposers Day notice.
Now the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is ready for Phase 2 of the program, which was first announced in 2018. The agency is seeking proposals “to conduct wind tunnel and flight testing of jet interaction effects,” DARPA officials announced(opens in new tab) on April 15.
Participants in Phase 1 of the program included, at the least, Northrop Grumman (which received a contract valued at $13 million(opens in new tab), disclosed in January 2020) and Aerojet Rocketdyne ($12 million(opens in new tab), disclosed in February 2020.)
DARPA) has awarded Aerojet Rocketdyne a contract to develop enabling propulsion technology for the Glide Breaker hypersonic defence interceptor programme. The contract, awarded in February 2020 and worth up to USD19.6 million, is for the research, development, test, and evaluation of propulsion technology for the base period of the Glide Breaker programme. Work is expected to be completed in February 2021.
Aerojet Rocketdyne supplies both solid-fuelled and air-breathing propulsion systems for hypersonic flight. The company delivered both system types for the joint US Air Force-DARPA-NASA X-51A WaveRider programme, which completed the first practical hypersonic flight of a hydrocarbon-fuelled and -cooled scramjet-powered vehicle in May 2010, and achieved its longest duration powered hypersonic flight in May 2013.
More recently, the company completed a series of subscale propulsion-system test firings as part of DARPA’s Operational Fires (OpFires) programme – a joint DARPA/US Army initiative to develop and demonstrate a novel ground-launched system, enabling hypersonic boost glide weapons to penetrate modern enemy air defences, and rapidly and precisely engage critical time-sensitive targets from a highly mobile launch platform.
DARPA awarded Northrop Grumman a USD13 million contract in Jan 2020 for the base period of the Glide Breaker programme. The contract provides for “research, development and demonstration of a technology that is critical for enabling an advanced interceptor capable of engaging maneuvering hypersonic threats in the upper atmosphere.”
SPARC to deliver propulsion design for hypersonic interceptor weapon
SPARC Research has received a contract for the propulsion design of a future hypersonic interceptor weapon system. Having received the contract award from the US not-for-profit research and development organisation Draper Laboratory, SPARC will also be responsible for delivering analysis support for the weapon. The project concept is based on advanced air-breathing propulsion technologies, which are expected to provide the hypersonic weapon with extended flight at increased speeds that have yet remained unachieved. In order to meet the challenge, SPARC Research will leverage its in-house experience and analysis tools.
The system uses an air-breathing engine to burn the stored missile fuel with atmospheric air instead of propellant ingredients that would be carried in a traditional rocket, significantly increasing the speed and range. The flight system needs specialised knowledge of the air properties entering the engine and ability to model fuel combustion at speeds greater than the speed of sound as encountered in a supersonic combustion ramjet (SCRAMJET) engine. Using modern multi-physics modelling tools, SPARC Research is focused on advancing the advanced rocket and air-breathing technology development, preliminary design and prototype demonstration. In August, the company collaborated with ANSYS and F1 Computer Solutions in order to modify and modernise missile propulsion design.
“In Phase 1 of the Glide Breaker program, two DACS prototypes capable of achieving the desired performance objectives were designed and are being fabricated and demonstrated,” DARPA stated.
“Testing in Phase 1 includes component tests and static hot-fire demonstrations of the integrated DACS prototypes,” the agency added, noting that participating in Phase 1 is not a prerequisite for joining Phase 2.
Phase 2 of the Glidebreaker program in April 2022
Phase 1 was a critical step, but did not address endoatmospheric effects such as controlling the KV in the presence of JI between the DACS jets and the hypersonic cross flow. JI in this regime is complex and dependent on a large number of factors. The Advanced Interceptor Technology (AIT) program in the 1990’s was one of the few projects that have gathered data in this regime.
AIT showed that JI effects are highly dependent on outer mold line geometry (including nosecone angle), jet placement, jet geometry, jet thrust, and chemistry effects resulting from unburned propellant reacting with the crossflow. Glide Breaker Phase 2 seeks to develop the knowledge required to enable a DACS-propelled KV to intercept threats during glide phase in the presence of JI effects. If successful, the results of Phase 2 will provide the foundation for a future program of record interceptor.
DARPA is seeking innovative proposals to conduct wind tunnel and flight testing of jet interaction effects for Phase 2 of the Glide Breaker program. The overall goal of Glide Breaker is to advance the United States’ ability to counter emerging hypersonic threats. Phase 1 of the program focused on developing and demonstrating a divert and attitude control system (DACS) that enables a kill vehicle to intercept hypersonic weapon threats during their glide phase.
Phase 2 will focus on quantifying aerodynamic jet interaction effects that result from DACS plumes and hypersonic air flows around an interceptor kill vehicle. The Glide Breaker Phase 2 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) can be found at this link.
“Glide Breaker Phase 1 developed the propulsion technology necessary to achieve hit-to-kill against highly-maneuverable hypersonic threats. Phase 2 of the Glide Breaker program will develop the technical understanding of jet interactions necessary to enable design of propulsion control systems for a future operational glide-phase interceptor kill vehicle.
A major goal of Phase 2 involves further developing a “divert and attitude control system” (DACS), which allows an “interceptor kill vehicle” to target hypersonic missiles in flight. The first phase did not consider effects such as hypersonic air flows, nor plumes from the control system, DARPA officials noted.
A solid propellant Divert Attitude Control System (DACS) is a quick reaction propulsion system providing control over positions of missiles, satellites, and spacecraft. Regarding missiles, whether a ballistic measure, counter measure or defensive measure, DACS allows for interception of its target with greater accuracy and reliability.
Phase 2 performer(s) shall execute wind tunnel and flight testing of a Demonstration System (DS) payload to characterize and quantify the effect of JI on a DACS-propelled kill vehicle. The primary deliverable for Phase 2 is a data set from the wind tunnel and flight tests that enables validation of models and informs future design activities
4. Demonstration System
Phases 1 and 2 together fill the technology gaps necessary for the U.S. to develop a robust defense against hypersonic threats,” said Major Nathan Greiner, program manager in DARPA’s Tactical Technology Office
References and Resources also include:


Short answer how to get to mars in space sailors:
Getting to Mars requires specialized spacecraft technology and a multi-year journey through space. It involves careful orbital calculations, launch windows, and propulsion systems. Space sailors must also navigate radiation hazards and life support challenges during the long journey.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Mars as a Space Sailor
Are you ready to embark on an interstellar adventure that takes you straight to Mars? Space travel has always been a fascinating subject, and exploring the red planet is a dream that many of us have. However, getting there is no easy feat. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide on how to get to Mars as a space sailor.
Step 1: Preparation is key
Before even thinking about your journey, you need to be in excellent physical and mental condition. You’ll be spending months in cramped quarters with limited resources, so make sure you’re up for the challenge. Consulting with medical professionals should ensure that any potential health issues have been addressed or are at least manageable during the rigors of space travel.
Step 2: Get trained
NASA requires astronauts undergo rigorous training before they can launch into space; likewise, budding space sailors must undergo specialized training relevant to their endeavors. This includes zero-gravity simulations, extravehicular activities (or EVA’s), survival skills necessary for survival scenarios, cross-training across different disciplines, communication procedures by radio waves compatibility along other crew members and handling complex systems such as spacecraft.
Step 3: Choose your vessel
It’s time now for decision-making process about which spaceship will take us all the way from Earth’s atmosphere and sustain our habitation during journey towards Mars without sacrificing safety nor minimum comforts required considering within budget constraints. In general requirements for a long-distance life support system could consist of food stores energy sources such as solar panels water supplies oxygen generating equipment air scrubbers among others crucial materials according requirements of specific mission objectives.
Step 4: The flight plan
Once you know which spacecraft will be taking us all the way towards our final destination it encounters significant energy requirements during propulsion stage beyond Earth’s gravity pull then needs carefully planned trajectory covering distance and velocity required towards orbiting sphere closest around sun called heliocentric orbit leading them closer until the right time to initiate approach towards Mars. This stage of mission often requires extensive computations and planning for logistics.
Step 5: Execute launch
Once all systems are checked, it’s time to launch! Excitement, anticipation and undoubtedly some anxiety will be how you feel during this pivotal moment of your journey. We’re entering uncharted territory here between Earth and Mars’ atmosphere so hold tight onto your seats, blast off can happen either through a vertical trajectory shown in most popular science fiction films, or sometimes from rockets mounted on an aircraft-shaped vehicle referred to as horizontal takeoff.
Step 6: In-flight
With the gravitational force behind us our craft enters into space-time continuum without existing force whatsoever. The voyage can be overwhelming due to silence around you; however, there might be plenty of action and responsibilities involved with maintenance checks regularly assessing conditions which includes oxygen levels radiation counts nutritional supply check systems operational health among other tasks that continue at various intervals throughout journey towards Mars.
Step 7: Arrival at destination
After months in transit it’s finally time to arrive! Your spacecraft would slowly make its way closer until entered into Martian atmosphere where ship experiences immediate deceleration as a result of friction created by surrounding air molecules. A safe touchdown is essential for the mission’s success before continuing explorations below surface if required or simply landing on planet surface reconnecting with ground teams back home via communications network. From here onwards we can explore exotic locales before executing return plan towards Earth completing round-trip successfully.
Exploring space has always caught the imagination of humankind as potential next frontier that bustles futuristic possibilities provided we invest resources efficiently combining technology innovation supporting dreams waiting to become reality offering immense oportunities and showing capabilities their creativity bring into life which driving hope and motivation for upcoming generations who aspire one day follow in footsteps of earlier space pioneers paving way connecting extraordinary visions innovation technological advances possible within human exploration domain keeping stepping forward towards stars. Following the above-mentioned steps provides insights into what it would take to complete mission successfully while establishing milestones for future manned missions established within our solar system, beyond the red planet’s orbit remains a challenge reserved only for the bravest and most committed space sailors out there!
Frequently Asked Questions about Getting to Mars as a Space Sailor
So you want to be a space sailor and explore the Red Planet? Well, buckle up because it’s going to be quite the journey. But before you start packing your bags for Mars, there are a few things you should know. Here are some frequently asked questions about getting to Mars as a space sailor:
1. How long does it take to get to Mars?
The length of the journey depends on many factors, including the alignment of Earth and Mars in their orbits – this only occurs once every 26 months, so travel windows can be limited! On average however, it takes around nine months to get from Earth to Mars.
2. Do I need special training to become an astronaut?
Yes. NASA (and other space agencies) require all astronauts on space flights to undergo intensive training covering everything from emergency procedures/stress management techniques to how spacecraft work in microgravity conditions.
3. What kind of spacecraft will I fly in?
Different spacecraft types are used for different missions – some have been proposed that resemble conventional rockets/planes/ships while others use electric propulsion systems or even nuclear reactors! It is also worth considering the capabilities of any Martian landing craft which would become your habitat whilst living & working on the surface.
4. How do we produce food and oxygen during such a long voyage?
To support crew members during long-duration missions like this one, engineers must ensure onboard systems provide reliable access to life-sustaining resources: power, air and water! Oxygen can be generated by plants + algae through photosynthesis while some new technologies enable large-scale food production utilizing hydroponics or artificial intelligence-controlled environments!
5. Will we encounter any dangerous situations en route?
Space travel is inherently risky and staying safe requires careful planning with redundant systems designed into every part of the spacecraft AND weaponry equipped for both cosmic radiation and asteroid impact hazards! Crews must also train extensively using simulators of various scenarios that might arise during their expedition.
6. What are the daily routines like during a long space flight?
The extremely confined spaces of spacecraft necessitate strict schedules and good hygiene/avoidance of illness to provide equitable rest/fun time for astronomers on board. Jobs can vary from monitoring vital systems, conducting scientific experiments or medical studies, attending remote meetings & more!
7. What is it like living on Mars?
Living on Mars (or any planet other than Earth) would be challenging: lower gravity means bones lose mass much faster and air pressure is less so the body requires acclimatization over time! The initial years may involve dealing with issues such as radiation exposure, dust storms and finding/sheltering in appropriate locations.
8. Can we explore beyond Mars?
Certainly! While most interplanetary missions have focused solely on reaching and studying our neighboring red planet, many scientists believe that Venus also may hold clues about our solar system’s origins – along with other moons within its vicinity!
So there you have it folks- the basics about becoming a space sailor who journeys to Mars. It’s certainly not for the faint-hearted but incredibly thrilling at the same time!
The Top 5 Facts You Need to Know About Martian Travel for Space Sailors
As the human race continues to explore the vast expanse of space, one of our primary goals is to set foot on Mars. Given its proximity and potential for supporting life, it’s no wonder that Mars has captured the imagination of scientists and enthusiasts alike. But before we can make this dream a reality, we need to understand some key facts about Martian travel. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top five things you need to know about traveling to Mars.
1. The Distance between Earth and Mars
One of the biggest challenges facing any mission to Mars is simply getting there. Depending on where both planets are in their respective orbits around the sun, the distance between them can range from 34 million miles (when they’re at their closest) to 250 million miles (when they’re furthest apart). This means that any spacecraft traveling from Earth to Mars must be designed to withstand long periods of time in space – typically upwards of eight months!
2. Radiation Exposure
Another major challenge facing Martian travelers is radiation exposure. As much as we may want to think otherwise, space is full of dangerous high-energy particles that can damage or even kill living cells. On Earth, we’re shielded from these harmful rays by our planet’s atmosphere and magnetic field – but once we leave our home planet behind, that protection disappears. To keep crew members safe on a journey through deep space would require advanced technologies like extra shielding or a “storm cellar” module.
3. Oxygen Supply
While there may be some water ice in places below Martian surface glaciers; however, there would be practically no naturally occurring breathable air on Mars for those who were colonizing it without technological intervention such as generation power plants or aeroponics unit with which astronauts-turned-Martian pioneers could create oxygen using water vapor present on the Red Planet.
4.Resupply Mission Requirements
Before anyone can stay on mars indefinitely they will first have completed multiple successful human crewed missions. To supply a sustainable colony that can produce food, water and oxygen for colonists; several resupply missions would be required to deliver the tools, equipment and infrastructure to Mars.
5. Psychological & Physiological Stress
Finally, it’s worth noting that with any mission to Mars, we’re not just dealing with physical challenges – psychological and physiological stresses also come into play. Spending months in a confined space with limited human interaction or having to maintain constant survival routines may result in significant impact on the mental health of martian sailors.
In conclusion, while traveling to Mars presents many complex logistical challenges ranging from distance, radiation exposure, oxygen replenishment requirements for colonisation , resupply requirements and psychological tolls alongside other risks involved like accidents or unanticipated technical complications. With new insights being gained through scientific innovations and technological advancements made today by greater investment into space programs globally; we could eventually pave the way towards becoming two-planet species as pioneers which will bring us one step closer to answering questions about the origin of life in the universe.
Navigating the Challenges of Interplanetary Travel as a Space Sailor
Interplanetary travel has always fascinated humanity, from the days when we gazed at the stars and imagined reaching for them to the present day where space exploration and commercialization is quickly becoming a reality. And with this rapid development of technology and increasing interest in exploring deeper into our galaxy, space sailors have become an integral part of it all. But make no mistake – navigating the challenges of interplanetary travel is no easy feat.
The first challenge that space sailors face is distance. Interplanetary travel involves crossing vast distances spanning millions of kilometers. The sheer scale of the solar system makes it important for space ships to have highly sophisticated navigational instruments that can calculate trajectories and plan routes intelligently, while also keeping track of fuel consumption and ensuring that they land on their destination safely.
But accurate navigation isn’t enough. Space sailors must also be able to adapt to changing conditions they encounter across long journeys since even minor errors in timing or trajectory can result in devastating consequences. They need to equip themselves with appropriate physical exercise routines which help combat muscle atrophy caused by prolonged periods of zero gravity exposure.
Gravity also complicates things when maneuvering in deep space or around other planets as gravitational force influences speed, direction, and overall mission objectives making navigation more difficult than ever before!
Controlling communications becomes another significant issue for space voyagers as distances between Earth and distant planets increase drastically. Data transmission delays can cause critical communication lapses which may pose a threat to human safety onboard spacecraft. Creative solutions need adaptation like antenna arrays; bigger dishes are especially useful during times where data streaming lags from far-flung regions in outer-space.
Perhaps one major challenge that keeps popping up continually is time management regarding interstellar travels due to extended durations lasting several years sometimes decades or more if spacecraft maneuvers long distances via several celestial objects during transit.
Despite all these difficulties, there’s something incredibly exciting about interplanetary travel that inspires people worldwide: its boundless potential for discovery. With each new launch, space sailors expand our understanding of the universe and push the boundaries of human knowledge.
In conclusion, interplanetary travel, and with it – the role of space sailors – will continue to evolve at a breakneck pace in the coming decades. From technological advancements to unifying goal-driven initiatives that aim to explore our galaxy further than ever before. But one thing remains constant: spacefarers must navigate many challenges along their journeys, be alert for changes on-the-fly, maintain good physical health through exercise routines designed precisely for zero-gravity conditions, ensure adequate data communication lest vital data is lost in transit. Nevertheless, with perseverance and dedication from these brave souls who play an integral part in humanity’s quest towards reaching for the stars – we can turn this dream of intergalactic exploration into a beautiful reality!
Training and Preparation for Journeying to Mars as a Space Sailor
The journey to Mars is not a simple undertaking, and those who undertake it must be prepared for the unique challenges of deep space travel. Space sailors, as they are often called, require specialized training and preparation to ensure they can successfully complete their mission while maintaining their physical and mental health.
Space agencies across the globe prioritize the selection of astronauts based on fitness level, psychological resilience, adaptability, and team spirit. The journey to Mars takes several months, with a one-way trip estimated to take around six months alone. Additionally, the time spent on the red planet for scientific research could last up to two years. As such, space sailors need an extraordinary level of fitness to withstand long periods in zero gravity conditions and combat muscle atrophy or weakening bones.
Astronauts undergo intensive physical exercises well in advance of their rocket launch; this exercise routine measures their endurance capability while helping sustain muscle mass. At times even relying on electrical stimulation to maintain functional strength in weightless environments after vigorous workouts.
Moreover, significant attention is given towards growing crops aboard spacecraft that can provide optimal nutrition during these missions that may last years before returning home. Astronauts are trained how-to harvest food grown under favourable light conditions with all essential elements like carbon dioxide (CO2), water supply system integrated into chambers designed specifically for planting seedlings on board spaceships.
In addition to rigorous physical conditioning plans, space sailors also receive extensive psychological screening and support throughout their training process every year post-training program too. The spaceship is essentially a confined environment where crew members experience feelings of remoteness from terrestrial life forms together with potential interpersonal conflicts., so handling oneself emotionally during trying times assures high chances of goal achievements beforehand.
The Journey between planets isn’t just about efficiency ratings but also requires deep knowledge & proficiency in relaying backtracking information sources vital for continuity as well as remaining connected regularly amidst blackouts or solar storms/ radiations which could impact critical functions onboard vessels traversing through deep space.
In conclusion, undertaking a journey to Mars as a space sailor requires significant effort, commitment, and specialized training. These individuals must be prepared not only for the physical demands of zero gravity environments but also the psychological challenges inherent in spending extended periods away from their families and loved ones. With an emphasis on fitness, mental wellness, and technical expertise that can help cope up with emergencies while relaying vital information back to Earth mission control teams is critical in ensuring successful mission outcomes.
The Future of Martian Exploration: Opportunities for Aspiring Space Sailors
As we look towards the future, the possibilities for Martian exploration are endless. Our fascination with Mars has only increased over the years, and with advancements in technology and space travel, we are closer than ever to unlocking its mysteries.
For aspiring space sailors, the opportunities for Martian exploration are vast. From research missions to manned expeditions, there is an abundance of exciting paths to take.
One potential avenue is robotic exploration. With NASA’s recent success with the Mars Rover, Curiosity, it’s clear that robots can be incredibly effective tools for exploring Mars. The next generation of robotic explorers promises even greater capabilities – from drones capable of flying through the planet’s thin atmosphere to autonomous rovers capable of conducting scientific experiments independently.
But for those who dream of standing on the red planet themselves, manned expeditions offer a tantalizing opportunity. Several private companies have announced plans for sending humans to Mars in the coming decades. Elon Musk’s SpaceX has plans for launching uncrewed craft in 2022 with a manned mission following soon after.
However, such journeys will not be without their challenges. The harsh environment on Mars poses numerous risks – from extreme temperature fluctuations and radiation exposure to dust storms that can last months at a time. Additionally, any successful mission would require extensive planning to ensure that astronauts would have everything they need to survive on their journey – from food and water supplies to oxygen and energy sources.
Despite these hurdles though, many remain undaunted in their pursuit of Martian exploration. In fact, some have even suggested that colonization may eventually be possible if humans can figure out how to create habitable environments on what is currently an inhospitable planet.
The future holds many possibilities for Martian exploration – and indeed all aspects of space travel – meaning there are plenty of opportunities out there for those who aspire toward careers as space sailors or future explorers.
Whether your interests lie in robot design or as one day being part of a team of scientists and astronauts charting a new frontier, the future of Martian exploration promises many exciting possibilities for those with the right skills, training and determination. What will ultimately be accomplished by those who pursue these aspirations remains to be seen – but one thing is for sure: there’s never been a better time to take that first step.
Table with useful data:
|Step 1||Launch spacecraft from Earth||1 day|
|Step 2||Travel to Mars||6-8 months|
|Step 3||Orbit Mars||Several months – 1 year|
|Step 4||Land rover on Mars||1-2 months|
|Step 5||Complete research and experiments||Several months – 1 year|
|Step 6||Launch spacecraft from Mars||1 day|
|Step 7||Travel back to Earth||6-8 months|
|Step 8||Re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere||Several minutes|
Information from an expert
Getting to Mars is no easy feat. As an expert in space travel, I can tell you that the journey requires extensive planning and preparation. Space sailors must consider a wide range of factors, including the planet’s orbit, launch windows, fuel consumption and equipment requirements. Interplanetary expeditions require exceptional strategic thinking, engineering expertise and most importantly – a steady hand when navigating space debris and other dangers. It takes a tremendous amount of skill and experience to safely traverse the vast expanse of space required to reach Mars, but with careful planning, advanced technology and skilled leadership – it can be done.
The first successful mission to Mars was carried out by NASA’s Mariner 4 spacecraft in 1965, which transmitted the first close-up images of the planet’s surface.


A long time ago, I predicted that the Mars Landing was going to be fabricated like the moon landing. Unlike the moon landing, which happened hundreds of years ago where there was no awesome software to fabricate the photos with which cause a lot of mistakes to be done, the Mars landing had some of the best experts to record it in a studio.
But how do we know it was fabricated? There's photos of the Mars rover with people around it (people didn't go to Mars) but this one is even better. here's the proof that the Mars photos were fabricated!
Wow, would you look at that? The stupid Americans failed epicly again. They already proved to the whole world how full of shit they are when they fabricated the moon landing. Now Mars? In other news, Australia is still not full of retards. Unlike America.


Space Science Explorer Series
Who are NASA's Space Science Explorers? The scientist studying black holes in distant galaxies. And the engineer designing robotic instruments that will probe hard-to-reach planets. But also the teacher explaining the mysteries of the cosmos to his or her students. And the elementary school student wondering if life exists anywhere besides Earth. All of these people are Space Science Explorers -- they are all connected by their quest to explore and understand our solar system and universe. This monthly series will introduce you to NASA Space Science Explorers, young and old, with a variety of backgrounds and interests.
Nominate a Space Science Explorer!
Tell us about the Space Science Explorers you know. We're looking for students, teachers, scientists and others who have a connection to NASA, whether they work for the agency or are involved in a NASA-supported mission or program. Send your nominations to Dan Stillman: email@example.com


Air Force One was forced to change course during President Clinton's flight to Europe last week after an anti-collision system warned of another aircraft in the vicinity.
Maj. Laura Feldman, an Air Force spokeswoman, said the incident occurred 200 miles from Shannon, Ireland, but the president was never in danger.
"There was never any danger to the president. The pilot of Air Force One at no time felt there was an emergency situation," Feldman said.
Clinton was not notified of the incident until Tuesday, a White House spokesman said. Passengers on the plane said they were not aware the aircraft had changed course.


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Published on Aug 8, 2011
2.5 Meter RC glider maiden flight over Arvada Colorado with a nice sunset. GoPro HD mounted on leading edge of the right wing. My NASCAR (turn left) style flying was because my sight of the plane was limited to it's silhouette against the evening sky, and having not flown this plane before. Still couldn't resist some fly-by's. Enjoy the flight. Note: Venus looks very large because if it's very low angle in the sky. The light passes through the upper atmosphere and it looks bigger. Just like the moon looks much larger when it's nearer the horizon.


by James Careless
OEMs are aggressively invading MRO markets, by leveraging the emergence of new aircraft as an opportunity to force airlines to use OEM MRO services—at OEM high prices. But it is possible for airlines and non-OEM MROS to hold back the invaders, by banding together in joint partnerships.
This is the core message contained in the “2014 MRO Survey” compiled by management consultancy Oliver Wyman. Entitled “Signs of New Life” and based on interviews with airlines, MROs, OEMs and financing/leasing firms—and available for free online at www.oliverwyman.com the 2014 MRO survey provides tangible suggestions for airlines and non-OEM MROs to keep the profit-minded OEMS from taking over the global industry.
Putting the Stakes In Context
According to the aviation consulting firm ICF International (formerly ICF SH&E), in 2013 the world’s MROs supported 123,000 civilian and military aircraft flying about 97 million hours annually, with business and commercial aviation making up 26 percent and 22 percent of the aircraft flown.
Now for the money. In 2013, the global MRO market earned $131 billion, with about 46 percent ($60.7 billion) being earned by air transport MROs. North America remained the number one MRO market in 2013 (31 percent of the world demand, in terms of revenue). Asia/Pacific edged out Europe for the first time (27 percent and 26 percent respectively), followed by the Middle East (7 percent), South America (5 percent), and Africa (4 percent).
Looking ahead, ICF International predicts that air transport MRO spending will grow 3.9 percent annually to 2023, when it will hit $89 billion. As this is happening, older aircraft such as the A330, B747-B, B767, and B777 will be phased out in favor of new, fuel-efficient models like the A350WXB, B777X and B787.
For airlines and non-OEM MROs, this trend is of fundamental concern, because OEMs Airbus and Boeing are doing everything they can to sew up the after-sales MRO on these aircraft for themselves. Their chances of success will improve once the world’s carriers are reliant on just a trio of their planes.
Even without that edge, the OEMs are already succeeding. In 2014 “Original equipment manufacturers won the market for high-value, aftermarket aviation services, leaving independent maintenance, repair, and overhaul providers scouting for paths to evolve and grow,” declared the Oliver Wyman 2014 MRO Survey. This is no mere guess: “In our annual survey of airlines, MROs, and OEMs, we confirmed the disparity in engine and component maintenance for new, modern fleets.”
To say the least, the OEMs’ successful push into MRO work is a seismic shift from how they used to view the after-sales market. “For years, the OEMs seemed to regard MRO work as being beneath them,” said Wayne Plucker, Frost & Sullivan’s Industry Manager for Aerospace & Defense.
Now that the global air transport MRO market is worth more than $60 billion annually and growing, their attitude has changed. With all this revenue available, “Airbus, Boeing and Bombardier can see the very real advantages of providing such after-market support,” Plucker said, “not just for the money it brings, but the chance it offers to keep customers buying their aircraft when fleet renewal time comes.”
The MRO Squeeze Play
The only way the OEMs can truly dominate the MRO market is by keeping non-OEM MROs from being able to work within the market. Given the number of commercial aircraft currently licensed for non-OEM servicing, this is difficult to achieve.


MyDefence in Nanalyze
23 May - 2018
MyDefence is mentioned as one of the top anti-drone technology companies to watch. Read the excerpt below or visit the link for the full article:
❝Another Danish startup to come across our radar is MyDefence Communications. Run by former military officers, the company was founded in 2009 and specializes in products that help detect and counter drone threats. They’re now working with the world’s biggest defense contractor, Lockheed Martin, so they must be doing something right. The company’s product catalog contains some interesting offerings, everything from radar to wearables.
Read the full article here:


The Bubble Run by Cool Events, which was scheduled to take place on the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh grounds today, Saturday, September 9, was canceled in January. Please visit their website to contact them at https://bubblerun.com.
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Stay InspiredEAA is your guide to getting the most out of the world of flight and giving your passion room to grow.
My Unique RG Cavalier Taildragger
By Fred Bruinsma, EAA 87176, Goderich, Ontario
The November issue of Bits and Pieces referenced an article in the November 1967 issue of Sport Aviation in which several EAA members were pictured working on one. —Ed.
I started building the Cavalier SA 102.5 in 1968, and it was first flown in 1973. Sid Bullen was my fellow builder and partner in the airplane. We attended EAA Oshkosh for the first time in 1975, but he sadly died shortly afterward.
My unique 1973 Cavalier SA 102.5, CFGOC, with retractable gear
On December 2, 1980, the World War II fire hall collapsed in a violent snowstorm, causing considerable damage. The aircraft was completely rebuilt with many modifications including a new stick control system, mechanical flaps, and more streamlined fairings. The landing gear changed from nose gear to a taildragger with the retractable main gear. Larry Burton from Klamath Falls, Oregon, a fellow Cavalier builder, designed and built the main gear in kit form. The rebuilt aircraft had its first flight in October 2005.
The engine is a 135-hp Lycoming 290D2. Climb is 1,200 feet per minute at gross weight. Cruise is 130 knots at 2350 rpm and fuel burn 23 litres per hour (6 U.S. gallons).
I was going to look up Stan McLeod on our way to Kelowna last year; however we ended up going the southern route. I’ve been unable to find his address. If anyone can help with this, please let us know. —Ed.
The Squarecraft name, which appeared in the November 1967 issue of EAA Sport Aviation with the pictures of builders in Regina, only appeared on Page 8 of our blueprints. All pages of our blueprints have K&H McLeod, Cavalier SA 102. The .5 was added if tip tanks are installed. All of our drawings were annotated as having been traced by Bill Pratt in 1968.


SMD Mirage PRO Multicopter System with 5x ZOOM and 4-side obstacle avoidance
- Ex Tax: 409.75€
This new drone from SMD, the Mirage pro is leading the way with a range of features not yet combined into one drone. So much technology yet so easy to fly.
- Obstacle avoidance from four directions
- 5 times optical zoom camera – 16mp Photography
- Retractable landing legs gives the camera wide shooting angles
- Easy to use intelligent remote with buttons for auto take off and auto land
- Folding propellors for easy storage
- Foldable magnetometer reduces interference
- 28 minutes flight time with the standard 6750mAh battery
- Over 30 minutes flight time with the optional 10,000mAh battery
- 12 months warranty on the main aircraft.
- Extremely well priced spare parts – great value investment!
Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance
Two smart range finders mounted on the Mirage Pro will quickly detect obstacles in it’s flight path. Information will be instantly sent to the main computer and the drone will move to avoid the obstacle. This amazing technology will prevent your drone from crashing so you can keep flying.
Large Capacity Battery
Utilizing an advanced high capacity 14.8V, 6750mAh Lipo battery. A larger optional 14.8V, 10,000mAh battery, allows a flight time of 30 minutes or greater on a single charge.
5 Times Optical Zoom Camera
The Mirage Pro is configured with a 5x optical zoom camera, enabling you to enjoy an unique perspective from the sky. No need to bump into anything to get close enough to see what you’re looking at.
3 AXIS STABLIZED GIMBAL
With an ultra-precision three axis gimbal, you’ll enjoy professional quality aerial shots and capture amazing footage from the sky. Complete with 5x times zoom camera to get an unrestricted 300 view of the world below and create images like never before. Camera movement in the Gimbal is up and down, left and right independent of the drone. With retractable landing gear you get unobstructed views.
Unique Radio Controller
Take full control with a remote controller built specifically for the Mirage. Precise control sticks command flight, while dials lets you tilt the camera to see more. With a built-in rechargeable battery, a clamp to hold your mobile device, and a range extender for up to 1000m, this powerful remote makes flying easy and fun. Unique functions only on the Mirage Pro.
Powerful Mobile App
Quick and complete camera parameter settings. Compatible with iOS and Android. Details stored include parameters of altitude, height, speed, battery life and flight time.
More info on the official site of manufacturer


Search & Rescue Drones are beginning to prove their worth when supporting Police and dog tracking teams. Passing on vital information in real time, tracking teams can coordinate their mission with the extra help of drone support.
The ability to move into hard to reach places that might not otherwise be accessible by helicopter or plane makes the drone a unique tool on a mission.
Our network of drones cover all of Belgium which means a drone operator can be onsite in record time.
We can create our flight plan onsite and be ready to support the team within within minutes.
If you would like to know more about our Salvator Project please get in touch.
We use IDRONECT as a helping hand to make drone flying as safe as possible. We don’t need to waste hours filling out approval forms and flight requests, we can just focus on the flying, IDRONECT takes care of the rest.
Because we have a Network of Drone Operators equipped and ready for missions, Salvator can be at any destination in Belgium in record time.
Possibly one of the most useful tools in aerial search and rescue; the thermal camera see’s all. Imagine the possibilities. Thermal imaging in heard to reach places can give you vital information without putting your team in danger. You can increase your search time into the evening and night and still not loose visibility.
At Skycan, we pride ourselves with having great vision of the future uses of drone technology. The ‘Salvator’ project is designed to be ‘the’ most efficient and cost effective search & rescue solution in the country. Crucial to this objective is a speedy set up and a drone operator nearby.
We have created a system and a network to offer what we believe will be a major asset to any search & rescue mission and in time we believe ‘Salvator’ will stand along side a police search and dog tracking in every major search effort.
If you would like to know more or join our network please get in touch.


Messe Friedrichshafen postpones aviation show AERO
Aviation show AERO will not be held in the planned period of April 1 to 4, 2020, but will be postponed to a date that has not yet been determined.
Bodensee-Airport Friedrichshafen is one of the largest airports in Baden-Württemberg. You can benefit from extensive scheduled and regular connections to the international hubs of Frankfurt and Istanbul. Our technical facilities correspond to state-of-the-art international standards and enable a safe flight for you.
All state-of-the-art airliners – such as Airbus A319, A320, A321 and Boeing B737– can easily take off and land at Bodensee-Airport Friedrichshafen.
Flight operations take place on weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.On weekends and holidays, hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The following applies for general aviation: Please obtain approval (PPR) in advance before using our grounds outside of the hours of operation.
The air traffic control office is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. On weekends and holidays, however, the office opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes no later than 8:00 p.m.
As a pilot, you also have the opportunity to use our pilot preparation room during these times.
Due to the layers of fog frequently encountered during late fall, winter and early spring, the technical standard at Bodensee-Airport Friedrichshafen has been progressively enhanced. This makes scheduled flight operations possible even during conditions of poor visibility.
To achieve this, the existing runway and taxiway lighting has been enhanced by touch-down lighting and taxiway centre line lighting. With roughly 600 flush-mounted light fixtures, the total number of lights installed marking the aviation area is approximately 1,300. The high precision of the instrument landing system (ILS) enables take-offs and landings with runway visual ranges of up to 50 metres (CAT IIIb). The prerequisite is a corresponding aircraft equipment and crew licensing.
We also place a lot of value on protecting nature. For example, the surface water of the all the attached operational areas, including runways and taxiways, is collected, divided and re-used. Moreover, airports are a much sought-after recreation and rest area for migratory birds. Clever landscaping is strategically designed to enhance air traffic safety: In the areas adjoining the runway, the terrain is unlikely to attract animals. This is quite different than in the peripheral areas of Bodensee-Airport Friedrichshafen.
The airport runway was renovated completely with a high-grip surface (anti-skid).This minimises the braking distance as well as the wear on brakes and tyres.


Two weeks before a scheduled public hearing about a December 2005 accident in which a Southwest Airlines jet skidded off the end of a snowy Chicago runway, the Federal Aviation Administration has called for more-stringent and uniform pilot calculations to ensure an adequate safety margin when landing jetliners on snowy or slippery runways.
The FAA wants at least a 15% safety margin when computing landing distances in such adverse weather conditions. The document released earlier this week says an agency investigation prompted by the Boeing 737 accident found that about half of U.S., carriers lacked clear policies for assessing whether sufficient landing distance is available when operating on wet or snowy runways. The FAA says it also found that airlines use inconsistent safety margins when computing landing distances in such circumstances, including some calculations conflicting with data provided by aircraft manufacturers. Read more. –Andy Pasztor


AIRCRAFT FUEL TANK DESIGNS
A fuel tank for the aircraft is the storage media for storing flammable fuel, needed for aircraft operation.
Generally, the fuel system of the aircraft shall have following basic features:
- The fuel system must contain a tank for storing a given quantity of fuel.
- It must avoid leakage and limit evaporative emissions.
- Easiest connection with engine and proper feeding technique to engines.
- Provide filling of the fuel in tanks in a secure way.
- Fuel system must have a system for measuring the remaining or filled fuel quantity in correct manner.
- Suitability for pressure /manual filling.
- All tanks vent to atmosphere, through a vent surge tank at each wing tip or another method.
- Ease for controlling the engine fuel control system.
Type of Fuel Tanks in aircraft:
1. Integral Tank: Fuel are stored in inside sealed structural areas. Like Wings. Wing shaving storing fuel system are called Wet Wings.
2. Bladder or Fuel cell: Fuel is stored inside a rubber cell or bladder which is located at a suitable compartment.
3. Rigid Tank: Fuel is stored inside a rigid cell like metal tank which is located at a suitable compartment inside aircraft.


U.S. Department of Justice|
Debra Wong Yang
United States Attorney
Central District of California
United States Courthouse
312 North Spring Street
Los Angeles, California 90012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 29, 2005
For Information, Contact Public Affairs|
Thom Mrozek (213) 894-6947
Los Angeles, CA - A 56-year-old Brea man has been sentenced to188 months in federal prison for falsely certifying flight-critical aircraft parts sold by his company and for selling parts for military jet fighters to China.
Amanullah Khan was sentenced Monday evening by United States District Judge David O. Carter in Santa Ana. In addition to the prison term, Judge Carter ordered Khan to pay restitution of more than $5.4 million.
Two years ago, in the midst of a jury trial, Khan pleaded guilty to 12 felony counts, including conspiracy and aircraft parts fraud, in the case involving the parts that were fraudulently certified.
From 2000 to 2002, Khan operated an aircraft parts brokerage called United Aircraft & Electronics in Anaheim. Khan issued a series of false certifications and other documents that claimed aircraft parts he sold were something they were not. In just over one year, Khan's company earned approximately $5 million by selling parts with fraudulent paperwork.
Specifically, Khan certified that a flight-critical helicopter part called a grip assembly for certain Bell helicopters was made of steel, when in fact the part was made of aluminum. While the aluminum grip assembly can be used on the helicopters, its useful life of 300 hours is significantly shorter than the 2,500 hours of useful life for the steel part. Before shipping the grip assemblies to his customer Khan altered them by removing and replacing data plates that reflected what the grip assembly was made of.
Khan also sold flight-critical jet engine parts called turbine blades and vanes. Khan sent certifications to his customers, including airworthiness certifications issued by the Federal Aviation Administration, to certify that the parts were new. In fact, the blades and vanes had been previously used on jet engines. At Khan's direction, cosmetic repair and re-conditioning work were performed on the blades and vanes to make them appear to be new, and Khan then sold the used parts in counterfeit packaging from the original manufacturer, Pratt & Whitney.
Khan also falsely certified aircraft parts destined for use on U.S. military aircraft, including F-16 and F-4 fighters, as well as the C-130 Hercules.
In a second case which was filed by the United States Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia, Khan pleaded guilty to conspiracy and violating the Arms Export Control Act. This second case was the result of Operation Dark Star, an investigation conducted by undercover agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. During Dark Star, Khan agreed to sell components for fighter aircraft and military helicopters to the undercover agents, who were posing as Chinese arms brokers.
Noting Khan's prior conviction for selling aircraft parts with false certifications, Judge Carter said that defendant's return to falsely certifying aircraft parts demonstrated that he was a "menace to worldwide air safety."
A second man charged with Khan in the false certification case, Ziad Jamil Gammoh, 55, of Tustin, was sentenced two weeks ago by Judge Carter to 78 months in prison.
This case was investigated by the Department of Transportation, Office of the Inspector General; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Defense Criminal Investigative Service; U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigation; and the Federal Aviation Administration. These agencies were aided by the cooperative efforts of representatives of Bell Helicopter and Pratt & Whitney.
Release No. 05-159
Return to the 2005 Press Release Index
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Able Aerospace Services has expanded its ability to serve key industry segments with three new accreditations from Nadcap, the global program denoting superior competency in aerospace-specific special processes capabilities.
The new Nadcap accreditations recognize Able’s non-destructive testing, chemical processing and shot peen capabilities, all part of a significant specialized services program that allows Able to complete more than 95 percent of all repair and overhaul jobs on site.
The accreditations open the door for new contracts — such as those from some military and commercial fixed-wing aircraft OEMs — that require service providers to hold specific Nadcap qualifications. They also continue to advance Able’s process focus across all of its products and services, including those not requiring Nadcap accreditation.
“Customers count on Able to deliver diverse solutions across multiple platforms and in locations worldwide,” said Able Aerospace Services General Manager Gabriel Massey. “We are already recognized by airworthiness authorities across the globe. Nadcap is the next step in that process, communicating to current and future customers that we comply with even the most vigorous expectations for quality and process control.”
Able plans to pursue additional Nadcap accreditations in the year ahead. In total, Able’s on-site specialized services range from electroplating, chemical processing, machining and grinding to NDT testing, hydraulics and bearings services.
Nadcap brings together technical experts from government and the aerospace industry who establish requirements for accreditation and deliver a standardized approach to quality assurance for special processes in the aerospace industry. Collectively, this team represents a stringent consensus on the standards that satisfy these requirements.
Able’s 200,000-square-foot headquarters is home to more than 450 employees including engineers, DER specialists, sales and support experts. Together, they offer more than 10,000 FAA-approved component repair, overhaul and parts solutions, and are able to complete more than 95 percent of all jobs on site, maximizing quality, cost and turn time. Accreditation and certification by organizations such as Nadcap enable the company to continue its growth within the market and do so in accordance with the highest standards.
Created in 1990 by SAE Inc., Nadcap is administered by the not-for-profit Performance Review Institute. PRI is a global provider of customer-focused solutions designed to improve process and product quality by adding value, reducing total cost and promoting collaboration among stakeholders in industries where safety and quality are shared goals. PRI works closely with industry to understand emerging needs and offer customized solutions in response.
About Able Aerospace Services
Able Aerospace Services is a leading supplier of component MRO, approved replacement parts and completion services. With headquarters and maintenance facilities on the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (KIWA) in Mesa, Arizona, Able's products and services support almost 1,500 commercial and military fixed- and rotor-wing aviation customers in more than 60 countries. Able combines 32 years of aviation experience with a staff of more than 450 employees to accomplish its mission: To safely reduce aircraft operating costs by providing resourceful component repair, overhaul and approved replacement parts solutions. Able is an approved Bell Helicopter Service Center and certified by numerous airworthiness authorities including the FAA, EASA, ANAC, CAAC, JCAB, DGCA and others.
De Havilland Canada is providing support to Aero HygenX Inc. in the development and marketing of a new version of the autonomous robot, RAY that will be optimized for use on Dash 8 Series aircraf...
With the main goal of supporting customers of the 50-seat ERJ 145 jet in their search for solutions to increase passenger safety and prevent the potential transmission of viruses on board, Embraer rec...
Air Alliance Medflight experiences massive demand for safe transport of severely ill Covid-19 patients. Inside their jets is the isolation and transport system, EpiShuttle. Through both sandstorms and...
As part of ATR’s sustainability strategy, the company set itself the ambitious goal to become carbon neutral for onsite activities by 2030. ECOACT will be supporting ATR in defining the right ac...


LONDON--Airbus Tuesday said fast-growing demand in India, China, and Brazil will ensure that the market for air travel will continue growing at 4.7% a year over the next two decades. The forecast is in line with Airbus' outlook a year ago but implies that the world will need 29,220 new passenger and cargo planes to meet demand, 1,000 more than in the aircraft-maker's previous forecast.
Airbus, the unit of European Aeronautic Defence & Space Co. which dominates the market for large passenger aircraft along with Boeing Co., said the value of new aircraft needed by 2032 is around $4.4 trillion, with the passenger market accounting for $4.1 trillion.
Among the factors driving increased demand for air travel, Airbus highlighted the impact of urbanization with long-haul travel determined by the rise in the number of the world's megacities to 89 in 20 years' time from 42 today.
The aircraft maker said the regulatory pressure for quieter, more fuel-efficient aircraft and constraints on airport capacity in key cities, such as London, should lead to demand for bigger and more economical aircraft.
Demand for wide-bodied jetliners like the Airbus A350, a new plane which the plane maker expects soon to enter service with its first airline customers, would account for around $1.82 trillion of the new planes needed by 2032. Boeing's new 787 wide-bodied jet entered service last year.
Airbus said $1.80 trillion of the new planes needed to meet demand would be made up of single-aisle aircraft, such as its family of A320 jetliners. Very large aircraft, a sector dominated by Airbus' A380 double-deck plane, would account for $519 billion of the market.
The fastest growth in domestic air travel would come from India, likely to grow around 10% a year, then China and Brazil at 7% a year each, Airbus said. That would ensure that the Asia-Pacific region would account for 36% of all new passenger aircraft demand by 2032, compared with 20% for Europe and 19% for North America. Budget airlines will likely account for 21% of the air traffic market by 2032 up from 17% today.
Write to Marietta Cauchi at firstname.lastname@example.org


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AboutLocated in the village of Earls Colne between Halstead and Braintree is our airfield and flying school, Anglian Flight Centres (AFC).
AFC has been teaching students to fly at a professional and safe standard for over 30yrs. A lot of our students have continued to fly at AFC once they have gained their private pilots licence by hiring out one of the school fleet aircraft. Some of these pilots have even purchased their own aircraft's and keep them here at the airfield.
Our fleet of four Robin HR200 aircraft, Alpha 120T and Cessna 172 aircraft are all maintained to a very high standard and are ideally suited for training purposes or for private hire to qualified pilots once checked out.
For the more adventurous person our sister company Anglian War Birds (AWB) operates a fleet of historic and bespoke aircraft including Harvards`s, Russian YAK52`s, Tiger Moths and Piper Super Cubs. A lot of these aircraft can trace their origins back to WW2 and now offer one of the ultimate thrills of flying a War Bird aircraft.
If you are unsure if flying is the thing for you, then come and give our full cockpit flight simulator a try. Using the most up to date software available you can experience the sensation of flying an aircraft yourself without ever leaving the ground.
Come in for a chat and a look around……………….you never know this could be the start of a whole new adventure!


Today, we published two new innovation calls from large-scale enterprises. Until 14 September, SMEs, start-ups and others can submit their ideas or solutions and thereby earn an innovation contract; the key to concrete collaboration with a corporate and extended funding and support. SynchUp! will make available a €10,000 voucher for the development of a pilot project.
The new challenges
The large companies presenting a challenge to SMEs/start-ups are familiar names: Fokker Services Group/Koninklijke Luchtmacht and Shell. Both challenges revolve around ‘remote’ solutions to issues from the companies’ daily operations.
The two players in civil and military aviation are looking for a way to remotely support aircraft inspections and repairs. Shell would like to find a solution to remotely control manual valves from a single control point.
Watch the two challengevideos below:
Deadline: 14 September, 5pm
The period to participate in the two new challenges via uploading a pitch ends on Thursday, 14 September at 17:00. Interested SMEs, start-ups, sole traders and scientists can find all the necessary information and submit their idea on via the two challenges before then.


#sparkles got new shoes!!!
One of the design flaws with the DJI Spark quadcopter is how it lands and lifts off. It is very low to the ground. It blows dust and debris up when it takes off of lands. There are a lot of electronics inside the aircraft and I get concerned about the integrity.
I was poking around on Amazon and saw these little legs for the machine. They lift the craft about 1.5 inches off the ground and add minimal weight to the quad. They were about $8.00 or so.
They clip onto the arms very similar to the stock propeller guards that come with the aircraft and are marked accordingly. Very easy to install and very light. I am sure it will affect flight time a little bit but I doubt enough to be noticeable.


Everything you need to know about Trump’s ‘Space Force’
President Trump on Monday announced that he was directing the creation of a "Space Force" as a sixth service, adding to the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
"It is not enough to merely have an American presence in space, we must have American dominance in space," Trump said at a meeting of the National Space Council. "Very importantly, I’m hereby directing the Department of Defense and Pentagon to immediately begin the process necessary to establish a space force as the sixth branch of the armed forces, that is a big statement. We are going to have the Air Force and we are going to have the space force, separate but equal, it is going to be something."
Despite opposition from top military officials, Trump has long expressed an interest in developing a separate space force. Here’s what we know about its possible creation:
CAN TRUMP CREATE A SIXTH SERVICE?
Not without Congress. Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson, who serves as a senior member of the Senate Armed…
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Sukhoi is poised to cancel its Superjet order with Iran. This news follows our recent story about how difficult obtaining and maintaining aircraft is for Iran’s airlines with reintroduced US sanctions.
ATR managed to deliver within the period in which sanctions were eased prior to their re-imposition. Airbus similarly managed to deliver some used aircraft during that period. Boeing did not move as quickly, and it turns out that may have been a smart move. The Iranians are going to struggle for spares. By not exposing itself, Boeing limited its risk.
Doing any business with Iran has to overcome OFAC rules. And as long as an aircraft has 10% or more US-based parts, the OFAC rules won’t allow an export approval.
The statement that a plan was to deliver the SSJ100R (SSJ100 with no western content) version to Iran by 2022, made by Sukhoi Civil Aircraft president Aleksandr Rubtsov after the contract signing ceremony in April, now looks awkward. Here’s why. UAC should own the Iranian market. They should have planned to deliver the SSJ100R earlier than 2022. The writing was on the wall as soon as the 2016 election results were out.
Why UAC could not move SSJs into Iran before the re-imposition of sanctions is an open question – in retrospect, UAC can claim to be following Boeing to minimize risk. But that isn’t a plausible argument since UAC wants to grow its global footprint.
If UAC were to argue they didn’t have available production, which is more plausible, this sends a signal too. UAC could (should) have moved to exploit the Iran Aviation Industries Organization, which owns Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industrial Company. These organizations are masters of reverse-engineering. Iran’s fledgling aerospace sector has proven to be remarkably resilient. Iran’s F-14s date from the mid-1970s and yet they are still deadly. Iran’s airlines have not been beneficiaries of state support like the military. But these airlines have managed to acquire 737s, MD-80s, A320s, and A340s and keep them flying.
Iran’s airline market may be the largest place to sell aircraft at present – Iran could probably take more aircraft than China in the near term. CH-Aviation lists 181 active commercial aircraft in Iran among 23 airlines. These airlines also have another 111 parked aircraft – likely those in need of spares or acting as a source of spares.
The Bottom Line
This should be UAC’s market for the taking. The US, Canada, Brazil, Europe, and China cannot deliver to Iran. That leaves Russia as the only possible source for new aircraft. The highest priority for UAC should be delivering the SSJ100R and an equivalent version of the MC-21 to Iran, as they probably could sell 300 plus aircraft and build the financial success of both programs.
Co-Founder AirInsight. My previous life includes stints at Shell South Africa, CIC Research, and PA Consulting. Got bitten by the aviation bug and ended up an Avgeek. Then the data bug got me, making me a curious Avgeek seeking data-driven logic. Also, I appreciate conversations with smart people from whom I learn so much. Summary: I am very fortunate to work with and converse with great people.


Priester Aviation Grows Its Fleet
A total of 75 aircraft are now managed and available for on-demand charter by the company.
During the fourth quarter of last year, Priester Aviation added five managed business jets, including long-range, super-midsize, and midsize aircraft. A Bombardier Global 6000 and Gulfstream G500 has also been added to the fleet in Chicago, Florida, Michigan, and Oklahoma, as well as a Dassault Falcon 2000LXS and Bombardier Challenger 300.
Through JSSI Parts & Leasing, Priester Aviation offers parts procurement for its managed fleet, which provides support for nearly every business jet model and make.


India plans to replace its Magic heat-seeking air-to-air missiles with the Asraam missile. Magic is a French developed, 89 kg (196 pound) missile with a max range of 11 kilometers. It was introduced in 1975, and underwent a major upgrade in the late 1980s. But Magic is considered past its prime.
Asraam entered service in 2002, mainly developed by Britain. It is an 88 kg (194 pound) missile with a range of 18 kilometers and a high capability heat seeker sensor system. The Asraam would replace Magic missiles now carried by a hundred Jaguar and fifty Mirage 2000 jet fighters.
To get the deal, Asraam manufacturer MBDA agreed to jointly develop, with India, a new generation air-to-air heat seeking missile.


|Best Price Found||$91||The best flight deal from Louisville to Tampa found on momondo in the last 72 hours is $91|
|Fastest flight time||2h 05m||The fastest flight from Louisville to Tampa takes 2h 05m|
|Direct flights||None||There are no direct flights from Louisville to Tampa. Popular non-direct route for this connection is Louisville Standiford Field Airport - Tampa Airport.|
|Airports in Tampa||2 airports||There are 2 airports near Tampa: Tampa (TPA), Tampa St. Petersburg (PIE)|
The cheapest time of year to fly to Tampa from Louisville is August. Most expensive is December
The cheapest day of the week is typically Tuesday. The most expensive is typically Sunday
Louisville to Tampa flights are approximately 18% more expensive in the morning than at noon
Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and Delta are the most popular carriers operating from Louisville to Tampa
Louisville Standiford Field - Tampa
Fly from Louisville Standiford Field to Tampa for the best Louisville - Tampa flight prices
30 days before
The cheapest time to buy a flight from Louisville to Tampa is approximately 30 days to departure
Not because the flight is going to Africa we can’t get better service on board
I like the fact y’all get me to my destination on time.
Flight attendant for first class is definitely not a morning person. Oh and the WiFi DID NOT WORK!
Some of our partner airlines flying from Louisville Standiford Field to Tampa are adopting new policies due to the global impact of COVID-19. Some of the airlines that may be waiving their cancellation fees are American Airlines, Delta, and Allegiant Air. You can search for the full list of airlines like American Airlines that are offering this flexibility.
A flight from Louisville Standiford Field to Tampa will travel around 735.9 mi. In terms of flight time, this usually takes a little over 2h 05m.


Free flight in the Park of Monte Cucco
Fly with paragliders and hang-gliding and kindle the emotion.
Given the characteristics of topography providing the mountain of Monte Cucco, and is inevitable practice free flight.
The free flight in the our zone granted is 2 types: the use of paragliding or hang-gliding.
Paragliding is say similar activity of skydiving, and to practice it as well you know you need a specific equipment consists of a wing, the wing paracadustisti call, to which the seat of the pilot is suspended by two cables funicular. Paragliding is also composed of footrests that allow better performance in speed always taking into account the weather and especially aerological. The glider-mounted controls allow control of the direction of flight of the glider and its speed.
Unlike paragliding, hang gliding is shaped kite and is the only airplane that is driven by moving the weight of the pilot, with very few exceptions represented by hang gliders with aerodynamic controls and has its own style of leadership made up of real propi concepts.
More of these activities to be performed on the Park of Monte Cucco ?
FREE FLIGHT ON MONTE CUCCO


Jamboree-on-the-Air and Jamboree-on-the-Internet Extravaganza
National Scouting Museum
October 17, 2009
The JOTA/JOTI Extravaganza on October 17, 2009, was operated by the Boy Scouts of America’s International Department, the Irving Amateur Radio Club, numerous amateur radio operators, Keith Pugh, K5IU, and ARISS (Amateur Radio in the International Space Station). The Circle Ten and Longhorn councils provided support and promotion.
More than 400 Scouts, parents, and leaders from all over North Texas shared ideas and Scouting experiences with their Scouting peers around the world using two-way amateur radio and the Internet. The National Scouting Museum was selected to be the only JOTA/JOTI location in the world that enabled local Scouts to communicate directly with NASA astronaut Jeff Williams, a former Star Scout who is currently aboard the International Space Station. Unfortunately, a problem prevented a full two-way communication. The Scouts could hear the International Space Station, but the astronaut could not hear the Scouts.
The JOTA/JOTI annual event contributes to better understanding and mutual respect between youngsters in different countries. Thousands of amateur radio stations around the world participate. More than 500,000 Scouts in 100 countries, from Algeria to Zimbabwe, take part in JOTA each year.
All participants at this year’s event received free Museum admission, food and drink, a special JOTA patch, and a designated QSL card for the JOTA.
The next worldwide JOTA/JOTI will be October 16–17, 2010. The National Scouting Museum is planning to host the event on October 16.


A gold F-16A Fighting Falcon from the Iowa Air National Guard sits on display in Sioux City, Iowa, June 30, 2022. The jet was painted with a commemorative anniversary paint scheme replicating the unit’s 50th anniversary gold jet as it appeared in 1996. The 2022 redesign of the 185th Air Refueling Wing static display was unveiled as the Air Force celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Master Sgt. Vincent De Groot)
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In just 120 minutes teams must design and build an aircraft that is welldesigned, can fly and land in one piece. Each team member gets a jumpsuitsprovided to ensure clothes are protected as well as wide range of materials -hardboard, tapes, double tapes, markers, etc.Judges walk around and collect point (airplane name, teamwork, decorationand use of materials). When the time is up is time for an airplane introductionand finally for the flight show.
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26/06/2018 – Curacao Chronicle. / WILLEMSTAD – Sky High will fly via Jamaica to Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic starting this week. The Dominican airline has been flying directly to Curaçao for two months, but now adds a stopover in Kingston.
The flights are operated with a Jetstream 41 aircraft, which can carry 30 passengers. These flights will be operated every Monday and Friday.


Qantas is pushing back its plan to resume international flight services until late October 2021.
Qantas earlier planned to resume international services on 1st July,2021, but now the airline plans to resume international services in late October, 4 months later than the previously planned. That date was widely regarded as overly ambitious.
As the Australian flag carrier unveiled its half-yearly financial results, the airline on Thursday confirmed that most international flights would remain off the books for another eight months.
Although the carrier had planned a full resumption of international flights from July, it is now adopting a more cautious approach.
Qantas in a statement said :
Capacity will be lower than pre-COVID levels, with frequencies and aircraft type deployed on each route in line with the projected recovery of international flying. International capacity is not expected to fully recover until 2024.
No flights to New York, SanTiago and Osaka yet
While the airline is planning to resume flights to 22 of its 25 pre-COVID international destinations including Los Angeles, London, Singapore and Johannesburg from 31st October,2021, it won’t initially resume direct flights to New York, Santiago and Osaka but ‘remains committed to flying to these three destinations’.
The airline also said that it is planning for a significant increase in flights to and from New Zealand under the travel bubble from 1st July,2021.
Qantas says their October date lines up with the expected timeframe for the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination in Australia. The airline also notes that ‘the CommonPass and IATA Travel Pass smartphone apps are being trialled on the airline’s international repatriation flights.’
JetStar also planning to resume international flights
It’s not just Qantas that is looking to resume international services. Low-cost subsidiary JetStar also plans to resume international flights from 31st October,2021, to all the 13 destinations that it previously served. However, the group notes that frequencies will be adjusted in line with the demand.
Additional flexibility and extension of credit vouchers
Qantas also announced additional flexibility for international bookings to enable customers to book flights ‘with confidence.’
Qantas’ updated Fly Flexible policy (previously only available for domestic and Trans Tasman flights) now applies to international flights booked from today until at least the end of April 2021. The flight date can be changed to any available for sale at the time (up to 355 days in advance). Qantas will waive the change fee however a fare difference may apply.
The airline has also extended credit vouchers to enable travel until 31st December,2023 on domestic or international flights, with Jetstar doing the same for vouchers issued due to COVID-19 disruptions.
The carrier further notes that ‘customers with international bookings impacted by cancellations will be contacted directly and offered alternatives.’
Featured image by Getty Images
What do you think of Qantas’ plans to resume international flights? Let us know in the comments section below.


Will Rogers Air National Guard Base (ANGB) in Oklahoma has been selected by Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall as the sole candidate location for the AT-802U Sky Warden Total Force Integration Formal Training Unit (FTU).
The move was announced by the US Air Force (USAF) on December 9 and will see Will Rogers ANGB bid farewell to its Beechcraft MC-12W Liberty fleet as it is replaced by 28 Sky Wardens. It will also see the base’s resident MC-12 FTU convert to the AT-802U Total Force Integration FTU. In addition to the 28 AT-802Us, Air Force Special Operations Command’s (AFSOC’s) recently reactivated 310th Special Operations Squadron (SOS) will relocate to the Oklahoma base from Cannon Air Force Base (AFB), New Mexico, to create an active association with the Liberty-equipped 185th SOS, which will remain at Will Rogers ANGB.
Before a final basing decision is made, an initial site survey of the candidate location – which will assess operational requirements and the potential impact to existing missions, housing, infrastructure and manpower – is scheduled to take place in spring 2023. Following this, the Department of the Air Force will conduct environmental impact analysis at the base, which is expected to be completed by autumn 2023.
On July 31, 2022, US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) revealed that the Air Tractor AT-802U Sky Warden had been selected as the winner of its highly billed Armed Overwatch programme, which came as a relatively surprising move to many defence industry commentators. SOCOM awarded L3 Communications Integrated Systems a contract – worth an approximate total of $3bn – for the procurement of up to 75 AT-802U multi-mission aircraft, along with relevant training and mission planning systems; support equipment; spares and logistics support services.
At the time of the announcement, initial funding of $170m was awarded to L3 Communications. An initial batch of six new-build aircraft will be delivered to the USAF under Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) Lot 1. SOCOM added that Initial Operating Capability (IOC) for the Sky Warden should be achieved in Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26), with Full Operating Capability (FOC) set to follow in FY29.
Air Tractor’s AT-802U Sky Warden is a multi-mission platform that is capable of performing close air support (CAS); armed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and precision strike operations in support of geographically isolated special operations forces.
The USAF will not be the first air arm to operate the platform. After being extensively modified, weaponised and tested by Florida-based Iomax USA, 24 AT-802i Archangels were delivered in total to the United Arab Emirates Air Force and Air Defence (UAEAF&AD), where the type entered active service in 2015. Of the 24 aircraft delivered, six were subsequently donated to the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) in late 2013 and a further 12 examples have been given to the Egyptian Air Force.


Jacob Dodd received his Air Force Wings last Wednesday, Aug. 18, at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas.
“It was like a huge accomplishment for me in my life and all the hard work I had put in to the training had finally paid off. It was also the moment that I knew I had found a career that would forever change my life,” said Dodd.
Dodd spend seven and a half weeks in Basic Military Training for the United States Air Force and is now an American Airman. He graduated from Technical Training last Wednesday and earned his wings.
He decided to join the Air Force because he felt like his life was monotonous.
“I woke up one morning realizing that I was living the same day over and over again as I was working for a cellphone company in sales. I was talking to some customers one day who told me about how they had served in the Air Force and loved it,” he said.
Dodd then went home and researched what the Air Force was and learned that its core values were integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all they do. He knew these core values would impact his life so he decided to join.
Basic training was an adjustment for Dodd.
“The most challenging part for me was adapting to the culture of basic training. Living with 42 guys from different states for seven and a half weeks was a challenge of itself,” Dodd said.
He says it took nearly six weeks for all of them to come together as a unit.
“There was no one else to really talk to besides each other, which in the end helped bring us together as a flight,” he said.
Even though there were challenges in becoming an Airman, there were also rewarding moments for Dodd.
“The most rewarding part for me was being academic monitor for my basic training flight helping all the other wingman pass their end-of-course test. They even called me Professor Dodd which was kind of funny,” he said.
Dodd will now be heading to Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Training at the Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington.
“After that, I will head to my duty station which will be Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, Nebraska. There I will be working as an Airborne Mission System Operator on the E-4 also called the doomsday plane,” Dodd said.


Moon above the Narvik Airport airstrip in long-distance floodlights
Long-distance floodlights on runways are remotely turned on by pilots on the commercial flights trafficing the local airports in Norway. This makes the airports visible from long distances. As the aircraft approaches the airport, the floodlights are dimmed as not to blind the pilots on final approach for landing.
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The newest Russian S-500 Prometheus air defense system has been put into mass production. It will be delivered to the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation in accordance with contracts concluded with the Ministry of Defense.
The CEO of the Almaz-Antey concern Yan Novikov confirmed that “batch production of the S-500 system has been organized using the latest achievements of domestic science and technology. The combat capabilities of this system significantly exceed the capabilities of previously created air defense systems and air defense systems.”
The first sample of a promising S-500 entered service with the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation in October 2021. The complex was placed at the disposal of the 1st Air Defense and Special Purpose Missile Defense Army and was deployed for the defense of the capital.
The second set should enter the troops this year.
According to Mr Novikov, the promising S-500 significantly surpasses its predecessors, including the S-400 system. However, most of the characteristics of the S-500 Prometheus complex are strictly classified. According to some reports, the promising complex is able to destroy hypersonic targets and even hit vehicles in low Earth orbit.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
- China And India To Likely Become Russia’s First S-500 Missile Defense System Buyers
- First Brigade Of S-500 Missile Defense System Began Protecting Moscow And Its Surroundings
- Russia’s S-500 Prometheus Successfully Strikes Fast-Moving Ballistic Target (VIDEO)


Fly With An Astronaut | Mark LeeAug 26, 2017 09:15 AM - Aug 26, 2017 01:30 PM Kennedy Space Center
Tour Kennedy Space Center with an Astronaut Guide
Explore Kennedy Space Center as part of a small group with your astronaut guide. Discover the birthplace of America’s space program with an experienced space explorer by your side as you tour Space Shuttle Atlantis® and blast off on Shuttle Launch Experience®, along with touring the iconic sites of Kennedy Space Center by motor coach. Savor a catered lunch at the LC-39 Observation Gantry in the heart of historic Launch Complex 39, where the Apollo astronauts launched to the moon!
- $199 for adults; $174 for children ages 3-11, includes daily admission.
- Annual passholders pay only $149 for adults and $134 for children. Annual passholder Fly With An Astronaut tickets are only available by calling 855-456-6597.
- Tour is scheduled 9:15 am to 1:30 pm.
- Space is limited to 43 participants.
- This tour may not be suitable for young children due to the length of the tour and minors must be accompanied by a participating, paying adult over the age of 18.
- Reserve Tour
- Learn More
Must be a minimum of 44"/111.76 cm to ride the Shuttle Launch Experience. Astronaut(s), times, dates and tour/dining locations are subject to change. Fly With An Astronaut includes daily admission to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
Astronaut Mark Lee was an experienced pilot and logged 4,500 hours of flying time before joining NASA in 1984. His journey began at the U.S. Air Force Academy with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and an assignment at Okinawa Air Base, Japan for over 2 years. Lee returned to America to attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and receive a master’s degree in mechanical engineering by 1980. He eventually became an executive officer and flight commander at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, before he was selected to join the Astronaut Corps.
Lee has acted twice as Mission Specialist and twice as Payload Commander for 4 space shuttle flights. His first flight aboard Atlantis deployed the Magellan spacecraft designed to explore Venus’ atmosphere and magnetic field and photograph the planet’s surface. His most recent journey to space was on shuttle Discovery to capture and repair the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). Lee guided the crew to completing the mission and released the HST at a higher orbit so it could start recording new information.
Lee has performed a total of 26 hours of extravehicular activity (EVA), or spacewalks, including an untethered walk to test the Simplified Aid for EVA Rescue (SAFER) jetpack. He continued to work with NASA as Chief of the EVA Robotics Branch until his retirement in 2001. He currently lives in Texas where he is the managing principal for the Houston office of Affiliated Engineers.


It was a flawless journey. The mission marks an important moment in the agency’s long journey to bring humans to the Red Planet.
NASA has successfully tested a heat shield for flights to Mars, which resembles an inflatable flying saucer. The LOFTID device flew into space and returned on November 10, according to Space.com.
The saucer splashed down safely into the Pacific Ocean.
Splashdown during flight tests of an inflatable moderator in low Earth orbit was performed nose down as planned. It was even raised in the ocean, about 800 km from Hawaii, which is a further achievement for the engineering team.
“This is one of the most important technologies that we are implementing today on this mission, and on this first successful flight and orbital recovery,” said Jim Reuters, NASA Associate Administrator, Space Technology Mission Directorate.
After deploying to space, the agency visually confirmed LOFTID’s full inflation live at an altitude of about 125 km. This marks the beginning of re-entry into the environment. The telemetry was briefly lost as the demonstrator returned to Earth, but everything worked out in the end.
It is known that the inflatable technology splashed down only eight kilometers from the Kahana II rescue vessel, making it easy to retrieve. So LOFTID ditched its flight recorder, as planned, to collect data.
“It’s a great, great opportunity to get flight data and see how it actually works. We know it’s worked well enough to make it great,” the agency said.
It is worth emphasizing that LOFTID’s value is $93 million. It was launched along with the Joint Polar Satellite System-2 (JPSS-2). The craft is an expandable aerodynamic shell designed to slow the spacecraft’s entry into the Martian sky and reduce the amount of heat generated by atmospheric friction.
NASA says this technology is one of the solutions for landing in the ultra-thin Martian atmosphere. This is why the landing is particularly delicate, as the spacecraft encounters only a small drag force compared to the Earth’s atmosphere.
Recall that the Perseverance rover on the Red Planet recorded the solar halo.
Two large meteorites hit Mars
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News happening around Little Rock Air Force Base
By Airman 1st Class Grace Nichols, 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
/ Published January 17, 2017
U.S. Air Force Airman Karliepatricia Shamer, 19th Maintenance Squadron munitions storage crew member, transports and stores ammunition on a weekly basis Dec. 13, 2016, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. A team of 19 Airmen inspect and store ammunition on more than 80 acres of land on Little Rock AFB. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Grace Nichols)
The 19th MXS munitions storage unit is responsible for securely storing ammunition at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. The shop has the only DOD munitions storage area in the region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Grace Nichols)
Ammunition containers are stored in an underground bunker for safe keeping by the 19th Maintenance Squadron munitions flight Dec. 13, 2016, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. The munitions flight has the only DOD munitions storage area in the region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Grace Nichols)
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Angela Barbour, 19th Maintenance Squadron inspector technician, reviews a checklist before inspecting an ammunition crate for distribution Dec. 14, 2016, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. The munitions flight members complete a variety of different tasks ranging from storing ammunition to inspecting munitions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Grace Nichols)
(From right) U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Angela Barbour, 19th Maintenance Squadron inspector technician, goes over a checklist prior to issuing ammunition to U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Charles Hardy, 19th Airlift Wing Security Forces defender, Dec. 14, 2016 at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. The munitions flight has the only DOD munitions storage area in the region." (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Grace Nichols)
Guarded by a tall gate, filled with underground bunkers and hiding in the back recesses of the base, the 19th Maintenance Squadron munitions flight on Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, is a secluded area but vital to Combat Airlift.
From inspections to storage, the flight ensures bullets hit their targets by providing ammunition to the 19th Airlift Wing, 314th Airlift Wing, 189th Airlift Wing and the 913th Airlift Group.
“Each component relies on us for [the ammunition for] base defense,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Anthony Buff, 19th MXS munitions flight chief. “Anytime the team is tasked with something they get it done and do what is needed to help defend the base.”
The munitions team inspects, stores and maintains a variety of ammunition and equipment, ranging from standard 5.56 ammunition to explosives and rockets.
The munitions Airmen also assists with flightline operations by loading chaff and flares onto C-130s. Chaff and flares are key components used in C-130 aircraft defense.
Working with personnel ranging from the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordinance Disposal team to flightline operations, the munitions shop provides the ammunition required to complete each unit’s mission.
“We work with everybody to get the job done,” Buff said. “From the 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron to the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron and multiple agencies on base.”
Just as marks left on a bullet can identify the firearm it was fired from, an ammo troop can be identified by marks of the trade. The rigorous training in preparing and inspecting ammunition and weapons singles out the Airmen from other career fields.
Airmen are required to complete regular self-assessment checks and annual explosive safety training, in addition to training off base to support joint service operations.
“We conduct training missions at Fort Polk, Louisiana, to simulate ground to air rockets,” Buff said. “The team works hard, a lot of the work they do is unseen but still mission essential.”
The training is only one of the identifying factors of a munitions Airman. The camaraderie gleaned from working closely together creates a sense of brotherhood in the Airmen throughout their careers.
“We’re a very tight-knit community,” said U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Antonio Valencia, 19th MXS munitions storage crew member. “Once you’re ammo, you’re always ammo.”
The shop is located on more than 80 acres of land, hosting 725 different types of ammunition. Including a war reserve stock pile, the combined total number of assets equals 1.7 million. The combined stock piles are worth more than $9 million and will be used to carry out the unrivaled Combat Airlift mission for years to come.


The Kepler space observatory has identified 132 new planets
A control wheel has stopped responding, leaving the craft unable to aim precisely at stars
"We're not ready to call the mission over," NASA official says
The future of NASA’s planet-hunting Kepler space observatory was in question Wednesday after a part that helps aim the spacecraft stopped working, the U.S. space agency said.
Controllers found Tuesday that Kepler had gone into a “safe mode” and one of the reaction wheels needed to orient the spacecraft would not spin, Associate NASA Administrator John Grunsfeld told reporters. NASA engineers are trying to figure out whether they can get the balky part back into service or whether they can resume control by another method, Grunsfeld said.
“We’re not ready to call the mission over,” he said. But at roughly 40 million miles from Earth, “Kepler is not in a place where I can go up and rescue it.”
The Kepler mission has identified 132 planets beyond our solar system since its launch in 2009, leading scientists to believe that most stars in our galaxy have planets circling them. It has gone into a “safe mode” with its solar panels facing back at the sun, giving controllers intermittent communication with the craft as it spins.
The probe was built with four reaction wheels and needs three of them – one for each axis – to aim its telescope precisely at a distant star, deputy project manager Charlie Sobeck said. One failed in July 2012, leaving it with only two functioning wheels at this time, Sobeck said.
Kepler shut itself down after it was pointing in the wrong direction, Sobeck said. He said it was “reasonable to suspect” the failure of the reaction wheel was the cause, but scientists hadn’t confirmed that.
The $600 million mission was designed to operate for three and a half to six years. Even if controllers are unable to return it to service, NASA said the mission has produced enough data to keep scientists busy for up to two years.
“Another four years would have been frosting on the cake, but we have a nice cake now,” said William Borucki, the project’s principal scientist.
CNN Correspondent John Zarrella contributed to this report.