INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
NASA engineers began using a network of ground sensors in March to collect data from an experimental air taxi to evaluate how to safely
Researchers will use the campaign to help improve tools to assist with collision avoidance and landing operations and ensure safe and
efficient air taxi operations in various weather conditions.For years, NASA has looked at how wind shaped by terrain, including buildings in
urban areas, can affect new types of aircraft
Center in Edwards, California producing air flow data
The Joby aircraft has six rotors that allow for vertical takeoffs and landings, and tilt to provide lift in flight
Researchers focused on the air pushed by the propellers, which rolls into turbulent, circular patterns of wind.NASA aeronautical
vicinity and people on the ground
technology during this study, warrants a better understanding of possible wind and turbulence effects that can influence safe and efficient
Tracking
NASA also set up a second array of ground nodes including radar, cameras, and microphones in the same location as the sensors to
provide additional data on the aircraft
These nodes will collect tracking data during routine flights for several months.The agency will use the data gathered from these ground
sensors in an area where aircraft are operating.One of multiple NASA distributed sensing ground nodes is set up in the foreground while an
California, on March 12, 2025
aircraft moving through traffic corridors and around landing zones
Distributed sensing has the potential to enhance collision avoidance systems, air traffic management, ground-based landing sensors, and
technology needed to help create safer air taxi flights in high-traffic areas
Transformational Tools and Technologies and Convergent Aeronautics Solutions projects under the Transformative Aeronautics Concepts program
One of several NASA distributed sensing ground nodes is set up in the foreground while an experimental air taxi aircraft owned by Joby
