The “Hurricane Hunter” – NOAA Lockheed WP-3D
With a lineage dating back to the the 98-passenger Lockheed L-188 Electra that first flew in 1957, the WP-3D is one of two examples operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to collect weather information. These aircraft conduct meteorological, oceanographic and environmental research around the world, and are known for performing observations in and around hurricanes. In addition to utilizing the advanced radar equipment housed in the bulbous fairings, the WP-3D also has the capability of dropping expendable dropsondes – small GPS-equipped sensors that collect and transmit data as they fall through the atmosphere. Photo: Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum
Topics Related To: AVIATION HISTORY
XB-70 Valkyrie Drooping Wingtips
Among the historic and innovative aircraft on display in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, the Bede BD-5 showcases a legacy that belies its diminutive size.
NASA Lockheed Jetstar
Originally designed as one of the first purpose-built business jets, the Lockheed L-1329 Jetstar cast a formidable shadow even before the installation of NASA’s experimental equipment. Unlike most business jets, the Jetstar utilized four engines – and it did so with the unique rear-mounted arrangement seen here.
Unique Aircraft Design of the 1970s
Originally constructed in 1971 as part of a general aviation design study, this rarely seen Beechcraft concept model was utilized for wind-tunnel analysis and never reached production.
