This aircraft is a modified Gulfstream V jet and can carry 5600 pounds of weather instruments that collect data from the Earth's atmosphere. The aircraft is maintained and operated for the National Science Foundation by the National Center for Atmospheric Research.
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Image courtesy of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research
Research Aircraft
Scientists sometimes travel in airplanes that carry weather instruments in order to gather data about the atmosphere. These research aircraft bring air from the outside into the plane so scientists can sample it and make measurements. Some research airplanes also carry radar and other special instruments.
Airplanes can collect information about many different parts of the atmosphere, including tiny particles called aerosols, clouds, winds, and radiation. They can also carry camera to take photographs of clouds from up in the air. Scientists use the information gathered by aircraft to learn more about topics like how clouds form, the effects of air pollution, and what causes turbulence.
Ships can also carry instruments that gather data about the atmosphere, the ocean, weather, and climate.
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