NASA Gulfstream Aerospace G-II N947NA

Photographer's remark
(28.8.2018, 22:47 CET)
This jet is one of 4 special Gulfstream II business jets modified to train NASA space shuttle astronauts for landing the space shuttles. The Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) was a NASA training vehicle that duplicated the Space Shuttle's extreme approach profile and handling qualities allowing Space Shuttle pilots to simulate Shuttle landings under controlled conditions before attempting the task on board the orbiter. They had shuttle seats installed as well as the same panel instruments, HUD and side stick controller as the orbiter. Extra support was added to the outside of the jets around the wing roots and other areas to strengthen them for the extreme decent profiles flown which were flown with the main gear deployed but not the nose gear. Very cool jets.

Create link | Add to Photo Album