PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TULLAHOMA TN Vol. 68, No. 3 Arnold AFB, Tenn. PERMIT NO. 29 February 1, 2021 AEDC 16-foot supersonic wind tunnel restored to operational status By Jill Pickett AEDC Public Affairs

On Jan. 21, the multi-year efforts of many yielded the desired results with a suc- cessful air-on test run in the Arnold Engineering Devel- opment Complex 16-foot supersonic wind tunnel, or 16S, and return to service of the test facility. “Wind Tunnel 16S will provide the nation a signifi- cant capability to rapidly de- velop weapon systems criti- cal to the National Defense Strategy,” said Lt. Col. John McShane, Aerodynamics Test Branch Materiel leader. “We can now assess weapon system performance in a con- trolled environment at parts of the envelope that were previously unattainable.” Later this fiscal year, the tunnel is expected to host customer models for air-on tests for the first time since An AGARD-B model is seen here mounted on a sting in the 16-foot supersonic wind tunnel at Arnold Air Force Base, Jan. 18. A test run with the AGARD-B model was the culmination of a multi-year effort to return Tunnel 16S to service. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill See WIND TUNNEL, page 4 Pickett) AEDC Aeropropulsion personnel testing software to aid in structural analysis

By Bradley Hicks question remains – How can propulsion CTF of how they the statistical analysis of systems we are testing,” Bea- AEDC Public Affairs we be more confident that we could better statistically cor- the data. The new software man said. truly understand the struc- relate structural responses merges data from multiple Joseph Honea, Software Structural testing of new tural limitations of this sys- to other engine parameters. recording devices, identifies Engineering Manager at turbine engine designs can tem?” said Seth Beaman, a They hope they have found a structural responses that are APEX, led the team of soft- result in terabytes of data re- Naval Air Systems Command solution. near engine limits, and as- ware developers to automate corded from hundreds of sen- analysis engineer assigned Those in the CTF have sists in developing statistical the process based on APEX’s sors. This data – collected to the Aeropropulsion Com- joined forces with APEX Tur- correlations between those commercial software prod- during High Cycle Fatigue bined Test Force (CTF) of bine Testing Technologies, a structural responses and other ucts. (HCF) characterization tests Arnold Engineering Develop- small business from nearby engine parameters. “Our team was very ex- – traditionally required ex- ment Complex at Arnold Air Spring Hill, Tennessee, to “This capability will ben- cited to be a part of applying perts months to analyze and Force Base. develop software to solve efit the AEDC workforce by our proven technology to cre- determine if the engine is This lingering query re- this problem. Apex built on providing further insight into ate an automated process that safe to operate in an aircraft. cently led to discussions their current software prod- the sensitivities of compo- “That is why the same among personnel in the Aero- uct, Apex-DX, to automate nents within the propulsion See SOFTWARE, page 5 F/A-18 static display at Arnold AFB repainted

By Jill Pickett plays at the gates are dedi- forts. The F/A-18, along AEDC Public Affairs cated to a member of the with an F-14 Tomcat, both military who lost his or her U.S. Navy aircraft, are on Six aircraft stand on dis- life in service to the United loan from the National play outside the Main Gate States. Maintaining these air- Naval Aviation Museum and Gate 2 of Arnold Air craft is important to honoring in Pensacola, Florida. The Force Base serving as re- their lives and the lives of all four Air Force aircraft on minders to those who enter those who have served. display, an F-4 Phantom the base of the warfighters “These are not just ways II, an F-15 Eagle, an F-16 who depend on the work of of showing the flying heri- Fighting Falcon and an the Arnold AFB workforce tage of the U.S. military,” F-105 Thunderchief, are on in support of the test and said Ryan Regrutto, a proj- loan from the National Mu- evaluation mission of Ar- ect manager with the AEDC seum of the U.S. Air Force nold Engineering Develop- Civil Engineering Branch at Wright-Patterson Air ment Complex. overseeing recent mainte- Force Base, Ohio. At Arnold AFB, AEDC nance of the aircraft. “They The paint schemes for conducts ground testing to are monuments to someone each aircraft are selected help ensure the fleets of the who gave everything in de- based upon historical con- Air Force, Navy, Marine fense of our country. They text and approved by the Corps and Army remain su- are a reminder to me that museum from which they perior to any that would seek what I do is ultimately im- are on loan. to do harm to the United portant, no matter how insig- “Either the history of States. AEDC has conduct- nificant it may seem in the the actual aircraft is used to The F/A-18 static display dedicated in memory of Lt. Cmdr. Frank Wittwer, U.S. ed testing in support of all of grand scheme.” depict a specific time frame Navy, that sits on display outside of Gate 2 at Arnold Air Force Base, seen in the aircraft programs repre- Recently, an F/A-18 and unit that the aircraft this photograph taken Jan. 6, was recently repainted, including the detailed tail sented by the static displays. Hornet was repainted as artwork. The static display aircraft outside Gate 2 and the Main Gate of Arnold AFB help to connect the public with the mission of the U.S. military. (U.S. Air Each of the static dis- part of the maintenance ef- See DISPLAY, page 3 Force photo by Jill Pickett)

Arnold Fire and Emergency Services’ Remember heart health new ambulance purchase to benefit the in February department, base and community …Page 2 …Page 5 2 • February 1, 2021 v Arnold Arnold Fire and Emergency Services’ new ambulance Air Force Base will benefit the department, base and community

Col. Jeffrey Geraghty Commander Jason Austin Chief, Public Affairs

Richard Tighe General Manager, National Aerospace Solutions High Mach Staff: Kathy Jacobsen, NAS Executive Editor

Jill Pickett NAS Editor High Mach is published by Lakeway Publishers, Inc. a pri- vate firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, Arnold Air Force Base, Arnold Engi- neering Development Complex (AEDC) or National Aerospace Solutions (NAS), under exclu- sive written contract with NAS at Arnold AFB, Tenn., 37389. Everything advertised in Joey Anderson, a firefighter/paramedic for Arnold Air Force Base Fire and Emergency Services, demonstrates the cot with power- this publication will be made assisted loading system on the newly-acquired ambulance Jan. 12, at Arnold AFB. The loading system enhances patient safety and available for purchase, use helps prevent back injuries to firefighters.(U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, By Deidre Moon national origin, age, marital sta- AEDC Public Affairs tus, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non- merit factor of the purchaser, Arnold Air Force Base Fire and user or patron. Emergency Services (FES) has pur- The High Mach office is chased a new, state-of-the-art am- located at 100 Kindel Drive, bulance, which FES Chief Daryle Suite A236, Arnold AFB, Tenn. 37389-1236. Editorial content Lopes said he and his entire team is edited and prepared by NAS. are excited about, not only for the Deadline for copy is Wednes- department but for the patients it day at close of business one will serve. week before publication. This commercial enterprise “The purchase of a new ambu- newspaper is an allowable lance is a big deal to us and a great NAS contractor publication benefit to the community,” Lopes for personnel at Arnold AFB. said. “This vehicle will drastically The content of High Mach does not necessarily reflect the increase safety, reliability and per- views of the Air Force, Arnold formance capability.” AFB, AEDC or NAS. The ap- This ambulance replaces a pearance of advertising in this 17-year-old unit that, according to publication does not constitute Lopes, had become increasingly endorsement of the products or services advertised by the less dependable over the life of the Department of Defense, the contract. Department of the Air Force, The new unit is a 2021 Type III Arnold AFB, AEDC, NAS or ambulance with a Ford F-450 chas- Lakeway Publishers, Inc. sis and a Trauma Hawk ambulance For general information box. Previously a dealer’s demon- Joey Anderson, a firefighter/paramedic for Arnold Air Force Base Fire and Emergency Services, about High Mach, call (931) checks supplies in the FES team’s newly-acquired ambulance Jan. 12, at Arnold AFB. The cabinets stration model, it had only 3,000 454-5655 or visit www. inside the ambulance can be accessed by both sliding doors and swinging doors. (U.S. Air Force arnold.af.mil. miles on it before being purchased photo by Jill Pickett) Use High Mach to mar- by FES. ket your products and With the new vehicle also comes point safety harness on all compart- Lopes thanked Amentum, the in the arduous process of buying a services. Contact Joe at 931-455-4545 or jmartin@ a number of increased safety fea- ment seats; back-up camera with company under which FES oper- new ambulance, which were As- tullahomanews.com tures in the box of the ambulance, bumper protection; powerlift for ates as part of the Facility Support sistant Fire Chief Gary Horn, Fire- which is where the medical equip- large oxygen bottles; portable oxygen Services II contract, for backing the fighter and Paramedic Coordinator ment is stored and any treatment is mounts inside the box; and more cab much needed investment. Shane Clark, Deputy Fire Chief performed, and the chassis is meant room. “Amentum’s willingness to in- Daryl VanCise, and Denise Doss of to better protect the crew and pa- Additionally, it runs on gasoline vest $182,000 in the Emergency Warfighter Support purchasing.” tients. fuel instead of diesel, which Lopes Medical Services part of our mis- Lopes further thanked AEDC “It has the biggest box an ambu- noted would be simpler and less ex- sion highlights our commitment and Air Force leadership for its sup- lance can have in height and length, pensive to maintain. The rear doors to providing top quality medical port saying, “Since the start of our with a 6-foot clearance so we have have Chevron emergency striping, services to the entire AEDC com- contract in 2015, the support and Core Values more room to work,” said Gary and letters, and the letters and strip- munity (at Arnold AFB),” he said. understanding of our Air Force cus- Horn, assistant chief of operations ing are reflective for night safety. The “The investment is an integral part tomer in every aspect of our EMS • Integrity first for FES. “With the improved box, purchase of this ambulance also in- of the safety and quality culture we program has been invaluable.” • Service before self we are now up to highest safety cluded a warranty. practice which focuses on excep- Horn also wanted to voice his ap- • Excellence in all standards as far as medics working “The unit is manufactured to strict tional performance, continual im- preciation for FES management for we do in the back.” standards of the Commission on Ac- provement, and personal and opera- backing the decision to purchase a Some of the other differences creditation of Ambulance Services,” tional safety. new vehicle. from the old ambulance versus Lopes said. “We’re now fully com- “Arnold FES is extremely “The company, Chief Lopes and the new ambulance include more pliant with current Ground Vehicle grateful to corporate leaders in the Deputy Chief VanCise, they backed lights and better LED quality and Standard for ambulance regulations. Warfighter Support directorate, and us 100 percent the entire time,” he Vision adjustable patterns; more cabinets “All this ensures our trans- above, who never flinched when the said. “Since we’ve purchased the “NAS delivers the best and updated cabinetry inside; more port vehicle provides maximum unplanned need for a large capital ambulance, you can catch some of aerospace testing compartments for storage outside; physical protection to the pa- expenditure arose. I also can’t fail to the FES guys outside checking it capabilities today and in a power cot with load assist; a four- tient and the crew.” mention our exceptional performers out. They take great pride in it.” the future.” Values • Ethics. We are uncompromising in our Action Line integrity, honesty, and fairness. Smoking Policy • Safety & Health. We are relentless in Team AEDC, keeping people safe from harm, and 1. The following revised Arnold AFB smoking policy is effective immediately and applies to all individuals on I believe in free and open communications we provide a safe and healthy work Arnold AFB. with our Team AEDC employees, and that’s why environment. we have the Action Line available. People can • Security. We are disciplined and vigilant 2. Traditional Tobacco products (e.g. cigars and cigarettes): in protecting sensitive AEDC information a. Smoking is permitted solely in Designated Tobacco Areas (DTAs) identified by designated signage. If no use the Action Line to clear up rumors, ask ques- and ensuring system integrity to support signage exists, smoking is not permitted in that area. It is the responsibility of all smokers to keep DTAs tions, suggest ideas on improvements, enter national security and our customers. clean of cigarette butts. complaints or get other issues off their chests. • Excellence. We thrive on challenge, b. Tobacco use on the Arnold AFB Golf Course is permitted, but discouraged based on the health hazards The Action Line has been expanded to in- accomplishment, and mission success. • Quality. We are passionate about doing of tobacco use and secondhand smoke. No smoking is permitted within 50 feet of golf course buildings clude an option for your ideas, comments, or our work right the first time. except in the approved DTA. suggestions on the AcqDemo personnel sys- • People. We have a mission-focused, c. Smoking in government-owned/leased vehicles is strictly prohibited. Personnel are allowed to smoke in their tem. Simply call the normal x6000 commander’s inclusive workforce who have a diverse personal vehicles at any time; however, at no time will personnel discard cigarette butts outside their vehicle. action line. You will then be prompted to select skill set, are committed to success, option 1 for the Commander’s Action Line or Op- demonstrate innovation and have a can d. For government employees, the fact that a person smokes has no bearing on the number of breaks they do attitude. may take. Breaks should be taken in accordance with the current supervisory and personnel policies that tion 2 for the AcqDemo line. They can access the • Culture. Our team is proud of our diver- afford all employees the same break opportunities consistent with good work practices and accomplish- Action Line via the AEDC intranet home page sity, inclusiveness, and collaborative work ment of the mission. and by calling 931-454-6000. environment. We are proud of what we do Although the Action Line is always available, and how we do it. 3. Smokeless Tobacco products (e.g. snuff and dip): • Relationships. We build positive, long- Smokeless tobacco products are not to be restricted to DTAs. Smokeless tobacco use will be permitted in all the best and fastest way to get things resolved term business relationships through trust, workplace areas (inside and out) subject to reasonable safety and sanitary conditions. Specifically, containers is by using your chain of command or by con- respect, and collaboration. of tobacco waste product, including sealed containers, must not be left unattended or disposed of in trash tacting the organization directly involved. I en- • Innovation. We overcome challenges courage everyone to go that route first, then if through creativity, perseverance, technol- receptacles. Users of smokeless tobacco must flush tobacco waste down the toilet. ogy, and flexibility. We actively seek to 4. Electronic Cigarettes (also known as “e-cigs”): the situation isn’t made right, give us a chance. continually improve. Pursuant to Air Force Instruction (AFI) 40-102, Tobacco Free Living, e-cigs are considered to be equivalent to • Sustainability. We plan and act for the tobacco products; however, e-cigs are not restricted to DTAs and are allowed to be used outdoors at a minimum Col. Jeffrey Geraghty long term benefit of our communities and distance of 25 feet from building entry/egress points. (This policy is dated July 27, 2016) AEDC Commander our environment. February 1, 2021 • 3

DISPLAY from page 1 was assigned to, or a paint United States. The aircraft scheme is proposed that was on display was assigned to used on the aircraft model, the 555th at one time and is though not the specific air- similar to one the men were craft,” explained Mark An- piloting when they crashed derson, historical property in Vietnam. custodian for AEDC. AEDC supported the The F/A-18 bears the F-4 program with extensive paint scheme of the as- store separation testing. signed unit of Lt. Cmdr. F-14 Tomcat – dedi- Frank Wittwer, U.S. Navy, cated in memory of Lt. for whom the aircraft is Kara Hultgreen, U.S. Navy. dedicated. Hultgreen was the Navy’s While the paint itself is a first female carrier-based more durable exterior paint combat fighter pilot. She than used on in-service air- was killed in Oct. 1994 craft, care is taken to ensure when her F-14 experienced the colors and details are ac- engine failure on a final ap- curately portrayed. proach and crashed into the “We have retrieved Pacific. Her crewman - sur the original paint scheme vived. The flight was part of manuals from the respec- training operations in prep- tive branch of service to aration for deployment to make sure we get it right,” the Persian Gulf. Hultgreen An F-4 Phantom II dedicated in memory of Col. Lawrence Golberg and Maj. Patrick Wynne, both U.S. Air Regrutto said. “We then try was assigned to the Black Force, sits on display outside of Gate 2 at Arnold Air Force Base, Jan. 6. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) to make sure we match any Lions of Fighter Squadron decals and art to the origi- 213 aboard the aircraft car- nal.” rier USS Abraham Lincoln. The process usually The F-14 dedicated in her takes a couple weeks; lon- honor has been painted to ger if there is more intricate identify that squadron. artwork on the aircraft. It AEDC has supported involves cleaning, sand- the F-14 program with store ing, priming, repairing any separation testing for pay- cracks or rust, and finally loads and engine testing of painting and applying de- the F110. cals. F-15 Eagle – dedicated The displays provide a in memory of Maj. Jim Du- reminder to Team AEDC ricy, U.S. Air Force. Duricy of the importance of their was assigned to the 40th work, but also are part of Flight Test Squadron at Eg- the U.S. Air Force Heritage lin Air Force Base, Florida, Program with broader pur- when he was forced to eject poses. at high speed during a cap- “The objectives of this tive flight development test program as they relate to of a new air-to-air missile, An F-14 Tomcat dedicated in memory of Lt. Kara Hultgreen, U.S. Navy, sits on display outside of the Main static aircraft displays are April 30, 2002. The F-15 Gate at Arnold Air Force Base, Jan. 6. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) to preserve the history of he was piloting crashed the U.S. Air Force in a way into the Gulf of Mexico. Navy. Wittwer was as- that produces benefits of Duricy’s body was never signed to the Strike Fighter significant value to the Air recovered. The F-15 dedi- Squadron Ninety Seven Force and the nation; in- cated in his honor has been when he died Jan. 18, 2006, spire, motivate and educate painted to identify it as in a crash caused by me- America’s youth towards assigned to the 46th Test chanical failure during a the U.S. Air Force and sci- Wing, Duricy’s wing at the night-time training mission ence, technology, engineer- time of his death. over California. He was ing and mathematics; and to AEDC has supported preparing for deployment. interpret and present to the the F-15 program with The plaque at the static public the U.S. Air Force’s ground testing since before display calls attention to history, heritage and culture the final design was select- his service during the 2003 – keeping its story visible, ed. Aerodynamic and store invasion of Iraq, stating that accessible and alive – and separation testing have he distinguished himself by creating a better under- been conducted. The F100, flying through a storm of standing on which to base the powerhouse of the F-15, anti-aircraft fire to deliver future perceptions and sup- has also been tested by his ordnance on target over port of U.S. Air Forces pro- Team AEDC. Baghdad. grams,” Anderson said. F-16 Fighting Falcon AEDC supported the The aircraft are located – dedicated in memory of F/A-18 program beginning outside the Main Gate and Maj. Gen. Winfield Harpe, with the prototype, the YF- Gate 2, allowing members U.S. Air Force. Harpe was 17. Aerodynamic testing of the public to visit the on a training mission in and store separation testing An F-15 Eagle dedicated in memory of Maj. James Duricy, U.S. Air Force, sits displays. Parking is avail- Spain when his aircraft for associated payloads of on display outside of the Main Gate at Arnold Air Force Base, Jan. 6. (U.S. Air able at both locations, with crashed, killing him, on the aircraft was conducted Force photo by Jill Pickett) sidewalks leading to the Dec. 5, 1988. He was the on the F/A-18, and engine aircraft. commander of the 16th Air testing of the F404 engine. Static display aircraft at Force, U.S. Air Forces in Bird impact testing was Arnold AFB: Europe, at the time. Harpe conducted on the canopy F-4 Phantom II – dedi- logged more than 5,000 fly- for the F/A-18 by Team cated in memory of Col. ing hours, including tours AEDC. Lawrence Golberg and in Vietnam, Cambodia and F-105 Thunderchief Maj. Patrick Wynne, both Laos. – dedicated in memory of U.S. Air Force. Goldberg AEDC has supported Lt. Gen. Robert Bond, U.S. and Wynne were assigned the F-16 program, begin- Air Force. Bond was killed to the 555th Tactical Fighter ning with the prototype, April 26, 1984, when the air- Squadron when on Aug. 8, YF-16. Testing continued craft he was piloting crashed 1966, after delivering their after selection of the de- at Nellis Air Force Base, ordnance during an armed sign, and has included store Nevada. Bond flew F-105s reconnaissance mission separation testing, ejection during missions in South- over North Vietnam, they testing and testing of the east Asia and as a test pilot were hit by anti-aircraft fire engines that can be used to at the Nellis Air Force Base and crashed in the jungle. power the aircraft, the F100 Fighter Weapons School. They were listed as miss- and the F110. AEDC supported the ing in action until 1977 F/A-18 Hornet - dedi- F-105 program with air when their remains were cated in memory of Lt. inlet tests and store separa- An F-16 Fighting Falcon dedicated in memory of Maj. Gen. Winfield Harpe, located and returned to the Cmdr. Frank Wittwer, U.S. tion testing. U.S. Air Force, sits on display outside of Gate 2 at Arnold Air Force Base, Jan. 6. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett)

The recently repainted F/A-18 static display dedicated in memory of Lt. Cmdr. An F-105 Thunderchief dedicated in memory of Lt. Gen. Robert Bond, U.S. Air Frank Wittwer, U.S. Navy, sits on display outside of Gate 2 at Arnold Air Force Force, sits on display outside of the Main Gate at Arnold Air Force Base, Jan. Base, Jan. 6. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) 6. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) 4 • February 1, 2021

WIND TUNNEL from page 1

1997. Recently, the tunnel was used to conduct a mass flow assembly calibration using only the Plenum Evac- uation System, or PES. The test in January used an AGARD-B standard model to validate opera- tional capability of 16S. The data gathered will serve as a baseline for monitoring of the tunnel and data systems quality. AGARD models are scalable, generic aerody- namic models that allow for data comparison across dif- ferent wind tunnels. “The AGARD model that was tested in Tunnel 16S is also intended for testing in Tunnel 16T (16-foot transon- ic),” said Jennifer Daugherty, an AEDC project manager. “Being a generic model, we can more widely publish the data and share with any interested customer without compromising proprietary or security interests.” Trey Glenn, an outside machinist, rotates a wheel truck on a transfer cart carrying a test cart from the Model Installation Building to Return-to-service efforts the 16-foot supersonic wind tunnel Jan. 12 at Arnold Air Force Base. The transfer cart rides on rails, and in order to make a turn the began in 2013 by assessing cart is jacked up, then the wheel trucks are rotated 90 degrees. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) (This image has been altered the tunnel system. The as- by obscuring a badge for security purposes.) sessment concluded in 2015 installed in parallel to the the project. Most all that tion up to Mach 4.75. Addi- be operated at temperatures is a necessary capability for with a successful air-on op- original mercury manom- have been involved actually tional planned investments many times that of standard the development of future eration of 16S, providing the eter board. The manometer hate to leave as we all want include extending the Mach operations. aerospace systems. Air Force with confidence to shows operators where the to see it back into a testing number capability into the Ed Tucker, AEDC se- “The outstanding efforts invest in restoring the facility shock wave is and is critical mode. These team mem- hypersonic regime. nior technical advisor, em- of AEDC’s test facility ex- and informing the work that to their ability to make sure bers, former and current, The Air Force has also phasized the significance of perts and wind tunnel test followed. the tunnel is at the desired have a lot of pride in what programmed an investment reactivating 16S and praised operations team to suc- The work completed in conditions. they have accomplished to restore the propulsion the team’s commitment and cessfully reactivate 16S order to achieve this current “The effort has been and completing upcoming test capability to enable the expertise. represents a key milestone test run involved inspecting nothing but teamwork, and test projects is that final ap- testing of engine-installed “AEDC’s 16S test cell is in our continuing effort to- and repairing 890 systems the team is very proud of proval of accomplishment.” systems in conditions that a world-unique capability,” ward ensuring that AEDC and subsystems, ranging their accomplishments,” This successful test does simulate supersonic Mach he said. “The unmatched is well-positioned to fulfill from minor repairs to com- said David Reep, an AEDC not signal the end of the 16S numbers at altitude. This ability to achieve high- its role in developing ef- plete overhauls. craft supervisor. “It is as if return-to-service efforts. capability utilizes a suction quality, high-productivity fective weapon systems The nozzle alone re- we are building something Currently, the tunnel can be scoop to remove exhaust testing of large-scale test that support the national quired new motors, repairs brand new; however, it operated at Mach 2.2. Plans and requires the tunnel to articles at supersonic speeds defense strategy.” of nozzle jacks and a cali- has been much more chal- are to restore the full main bration. The control room, lenging since we are using compressor capability to which is late-1950s vintage, equipment that was put into run up to Mach 3.4, then op- had 50 percent of the con- service in the late 1950s. erate the facility compressor trols updated. Also, a new The team make-up has var- and PES in a series configu- electronic manometer was ied in numbers throughout ration to demonstrate opera-

Dale McKill, an outside machinist, makes incremental adjustments to an AGARD-B model to ensure the surface is as smooth as possible where ac- cess covers are located Jan. 8 at Arnold Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett)

A shadowgraph image created during an air flow run of the 16-foot supersonic wind tunnel at Arnold Air Force Base in January. The imaging technique al- lows engineers to see density gradients in the flow field in order to visualize the flow. (U.S. Air Force photo) February 1, 2021 • 5 Remember heart health in February

By AEDC Safety of their hearts year-round. Consider get essential omega-3 fatty acids. risk of many serious and chronic the facts: health conditions, including February is American Heart Month • Be nutty – Munch on a small heart disease, obesity, high blood • Heart disease kills more people across the USA. handful, about 1 oz., of unsalted pressure, diabetes and some types than all forms of cancer combined. Most of us consider it to be a con- nuts and seeds for good fats, of cancer. They’re also essential to energy, protein and fiber. Good dition for the older generation, but • 83 percent believe that heart your everyday health. heart disease and associated illnesses choices include almonds, attacks can be prevented but aren’t For more ideas check out www. are on the rise across all age groups. hazelnuts, peanuts, pistachios, motivated to do anything. heart.org/healthyforgood. That is why Heart Month is so impor- pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds Whether your goal is to lose weight tant to us all. Heart disease is the No. and walnuts. • 72 percent of Americans don’t or just improve your health you can 1 killer of Americans. consider themselves to be at risk start with a small change in lifestyle American Heart Month is a tradi- • Add avocado – Snack, cook and for heart disease. and have the possibility of living lon- tion that’s over half a century strong. bake with avocado to add healthy ger and having a better fuller life. You The first proclamation was issued by • 58 percent put no effort into fats, fiber and essential vitamins and minerals. do not have to “change everything” President Lyndon B. Johnson in Feb- improving their heart health. or do it all at once. Those are great ruary 1964, nine years after he had While science is advancing medi- • Check the oils – Use cooking and stories, but most of us will decide a heart attack. Since then, the sitting cine in exciting new ways, unhealthy dressing oils that are lower in to change and need to start small by president has annually declared Feb- lifestyle choices combined with ris- saturated fat. Good choices include making decisions we can stick with. ruary to be American Heart Month. ing obesity rates in both kids and avocado, canola, corn, grapeseed, Under your doctor’s guidance, With increased awareness and or- adults have hindered progress fight- olive, peanut, safflower, sesame, consider these changes – no sodas, ganizations, such as the American ing heart disease. soybean and sunflower oils. and more vegetables; no second help- Heart Association, supplying helpful The good news is that heart dis- ings, instead a walk around the block tools, millions of people are enjoying ease is preventable in most cases • Add color – Colorful, delicious (someone to walk with keeps you ac- longer, healthier lives. But despite all and nutritious foods keep our countable), whatever works for you. the progress, heart disease remains with healthy choices, which include not smoking, maintaining a healthy bodies and minds healthier, You may be surprised, as you make the single largest health threat to longer. Fruits and vegetables changes it will get easier as you go. Americans. weight, controlling blood sugar and cholesterol, treating high blood pres- provide many beneficial nutrients. Good luck. Cardiovascular disease, heart dis- Add fruits and vegetables to Take care of each other. ease and stroke combined, kills about sure, getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity meals and snacks for a nutritional If you observe an unsafe action or 2,300 people a day. Obesity in both condition that needs immediate atten- a week and getting regular checkups. power boost. All forms of fruits youth and adults is at an all-time and vegetables – fresh, frozen, tion (i.e., one that creates immedi- Here are dietary changes you can high. Youth are being diagnosed with canned and dried – should be part ate danger to life or health), call the make to help improve your health: heart disease earlier than ever, and of a healthy diet. They are among AEDC Safety Hotline, 931-454-7233 people just ZIP codes apart can live • Go fish – Eat at least 8 ounces of the most versatile, convenient (S-A-F-E). This number rings in the 25 years less than their neighbors be- non-fried fish each week, which and affordable foods you can AEDC Safety Office on weekdays cause of disparities in health. may be divided over two servings. eat. Choose those with little or during business hours. The Opera- American Heart Month is vital for Choose fatty or oily fish like no added salt or sugar. A healthy tions Center answers calls at night, awareness, but the American Heart albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, eating plan full of fruits and on weekends and after the fourth ring Association urges people to take care mackerel, sardines and salmon to vegetables can help lower your during regular duty hours. Air Force acquisition executive unveils next e-Plane, publishes digital engineering guidebook

By Secretary of the Air takes computer creation broadly across the Air Force Public Affairs technology to the next and Space Forces in pro- level, rendering not just grams both new and old. ARLINGTON, Va. the design of complex Digital engineering has (AFNS) – In a follow- systems, but their as- already revolutionized on to his Matrix-themed sembly, environment and the automotive industry, “There is No Spoon” even physical perfor- and it holds the same treatise, Dr. William mance in high-powered promise for defense ac- Roper, assistant secre- virtual reality,” Roper quisitions. tary of the Air Force wrote in the sequel es- “Strategically, you for acquisition, technol- say titled, “Bending the are looking to flip the ogy and logistics, re- Spoon.” current acquisition para- leased a sequel essay Roper equates this digm – exchange real- that establishes criteria new technology to the in- world activities with for digitally-engineered tersection of art and sci- digital – for speed and programs, while reveal- ence, much the same way agility,” Roper wrote. ing Next Generation Air architecture begins with “Speed and agility are Dominance has achieved an artistic idea that must greater weapons – and e-Series status as the ser- become an engineering more to be feared in vice’s next e-Plane. reality. Throughout his- future militaries – than Digital engineering tory, new technologies any individual system allowed the service’s have helped architecture we could build.” first e-Plane, the eT-7A in this pursuit. Roper ar- Within the document, Red Hawk, to be digital- gues digital engineering Roper lays out 14 princi- ly-designed and built in is joining their ranks. ples for digital engineer- just 36 months – a feat While computer- ing and their underlying not accomplished since aided design has existed authoritative virtualiza- the 1950s with third- since the 1960s, Roper tions to serve as guide- generation fighters. The states new virtual reality posts for those programs same digital approach technology is vastly su- who seek the e-Series was applied to NGAD, perior because of today’s designation. and enabled the Air computing power. According to Roper, Force’s most advanced “A trillion-fold boost NGAD isn’t the only sixth-generation flight in computer process- program to have recent- demonstrator to fly in the ing has morphed those ly met the 14 criteria and real-world years ahead early blueprint tools into achieved e-Series desig- of expectation. today’s powerful digi- nation. In order to receive the tal engineering models “A-10 Re-wing Pro- Dr. William Roper, assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition, technol- coveted e-Series desig- – called digital threads gram, B-52 Commercial ogy and logistics, released an essay titled, “Bending the Spoon,” focused on digital engineering. (U.S. Air Force graphic) nation, a program must and digital twins – that Engine Replacement apply digital engineering replace real-world pro- Program, and Ground- cate real-word activi- embrace digital engi- should guide the Air principles and achieve totyping and testing Based Strategic Deter- ties, and have achieved neering, a true digital Force and Space Force’s authoritative virtualiza- with authoritative virtual rent have all met the paradigm-shifting per- evolution could follow. analog-to-digital meta- tion that replaces, auto- sources of truth,” Roper e-Series bar,” Roper formance.” “Each new e-System morphosis. Given the ad- mates, or shortens for- wrote. wrote. “They all lever- Roper indicates this invites us to reimag- versaries and challenges merly real-world activi- Roper argues this aged authoritative vir- is only the beginning, ine both its acquisition these two Services face, ties. paradigm-changing tech- tualizations to signifi- and if the Air Force and and operationalization,” that metamorphosis had “Digital engineering nology must be applied cantly replace or trun- Space Force can fully Roper wrote. “e-Series better be fast.”

SOFTWARE from page 1

benefits our AEDC custom- an accelerated schedule. As product at certain milestones intensive, expert-required dis- “This capability will en- er,” Honea said. part of this program, the DOD in the process. cipline to what is now an au- able AEDC to provide sta- The development of this will advertise a need or issue Dr. Kurt Nichol, president tomated process,” Nichol said. tistically-based correlations software is part of a Small that is eventually awarded to of APEX, was very pleased to “It’s truly amazing to see how between low- and high-speed Business Innovation Research a company to provide a solu- see this project executed suc- things have progressed.” data and ultimately assist (SBIR) project within the tion. DOD personnel will then cessfully as it represents the Beaman said once the soft- us in providing better, more Aeropropulsion group. The partner with this company culmination of nearly 40 years ware moves from the test- objective assessments of SBIR program is a tool the during the development and of working in HCF testing. ing and development stage to propulsion systems to the Department of Defense uti- testing phases and assess the “HCF testing and analysis implementation, it will benefit sponsoring program offices,” lizes to develop solutions on progress and usability of the has gone from a very labor AEDC greatly. Beaman said. 6 • February 1, 2021 WeaponONE demonstrates Digital Twin technologies that deliver software-defined weapon capabilities to the battlefield

A visual representation of a digital twin. A digital twin is a virtual representation of an instance of a physical object that shares data with its physical twin throughout the system lifecycle. (U.S. Air Force illustration by Chris Quinlan and John James)

By Air Force Research mendous flexibility and government, industry able and efficient prod- 2020 Digital Campaign ally exchange data with Laboratory Public adaptability to our weap- and academia and ap- ucts, said Dr. Craig M. Industry Days event, W1 their physical counter- Affairs ons systems.” plies them to weapons Ewing, senior scientist was presented as one of parts. W1’s continued WeaponONE pos- development. W1 has for AFRL’s weapons three exemplar digital work with ABMS on- EGLIN AIR sesses multiple capabili- developed a model-based modeling and simulation engineering programs by ramps, Hardware-in-the- FORCE BASE, Fla. – ties, including the devel- Weapons Government directorate. “This dem- the Assistant Secretary Loop and Systems Inte- The Air Force Research opment of an Authorita- Reference Architecture onstration is just the first of the Air Force for Ac- gration Lab testing and Laboratory Munitions tive Source of Truth for promoting flexibility, of many that will come quisition, Technology & Modeling, Simulation Directorate recently weapons, a software fac- modularity, reuse and as we move the weapons Logistics, and Air Force & Analysis integration hosted a demonstra- tory/DevSecOps pipe- consistency across weap- enterprise into an era of Materiel Command. Ad- will support develop- tion of the Team Eglin line for development of on system data while digital engineering, ac- ditionally, W1 was cho- ment of new capabilities Weapons Digital Enter- simulations as well as establishing a technical celerating weapons de- sen as a pathfinder pro- that leverage the digital prise WeaponONE (W1) on-board flight software and collaborative base- velopment and improve- gram for the Air Force twin and digital thread program at the Virtual and a government-owned line for the government ment at the speed of rel- Materiel Command Dig- to integrate emerging Warfare Munitions Sim- Cloud-based tech stack. to operate and support evance.” ital Campaign. technologies, enhance ulator. The demonstra- The all-encompass- weapons throughout Although the pro- In the coming year, effects and support rap- tion highlighted the sig- ing, digital, agile, open their lifecycle. gram is still in its early W1 will further develop id evaluation of science nificant progress made ecosystem program The W1 program will stages, it has already gar- its digital twin proto- and technology concepts in the past year and unites best practices and give the Air Force pre- nered attention from Air types to “real” digital through a data-driven highlighted the value of standards from across cise, accessible, adapt- Force leaders. During the twins that bi-direction- decision pipeline. digital engineering to warfighters. This particular demonstration was based on a model of the 24-hour Air Tasking Order (ATO) cycle of a collaborative swarm- ing weapons system prototype called “Gray Wolf.” The virtual demonstration inte- grated multiple aspects of the W1 portfolio, including the Digital Twin Lab, to rapidly enhance Gray Wolf’s capabilities. Digital twins are virtual rep- resentations of a real- world entity synchro- nized with their physi- cal counterpart, such as a weapon. The dem- onstration showed how data is collected from weapons in-flight, combined with data from the battlefield environment, and sent back through the Ad- vanced Battle Manage- ment System (ABMS) to digital twins. The digital twins run on high-perfor- mance computing sys- tems aided by Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning techniques to evaluate possible soft- ware upgrades. After determining the most appropriate course of action, that informa- tion rapidly returns to the physical weapons in-theater, providing improvements to their performance in near real time or as early as the next 24-hour ATO cycle. Col. Garry Haase, Director of the AFRL Munitions Directorate, explains, “The Digital Twin Lab represents the ultimate expression of digital engineering, acting as a force mul- tiplier, giving us tre- February 1, 2021 • 7 8 • February 1, 2021 Air Force rolls out Coaching Culture Facilitator Course pilot for mid-level leaders

The Air Force has created a course to help create a coaching culture. (U.S. Air Force graphic)

By Secretary of the Air growth and development an online Coaching Cul- familiar with coaching. To participants will earn an Air Jan. 29, – whichever comes Force Public Affairs for both individuals and ture Facilitator Course,” differentiate between the Force coaching certificate, first; applications must be groups. Through struc- said Russell J. Frasz, Air three, Frasz explained, a and will be required to de- uploaded to MyVector un- ARLINGTON, Va. tured dialogue, coaches Force director of Force sponsor talks about you, a liver 100 hours of coaching der the member’s profile. (AFNS) – GS-11 supervi- provide members with Development. “The goal mentor talks to you, and a sessions over a two-year Those selected will be noti- sors with 10 years time- new perspectives to help for this course is to sup- coach talks with you. period, along with a two- fied by March 25. The pro- in-service along with O-3s them achieve greater clar- port the creation of an or- Flatter, Inc., an external year service commitment. gram will begin April 19. and E-7s with two years ity and inspire them to ganizational culture that contracting partner, devel- Eligible personnel will In the future, there are time-in-grade, can now achieve their personal and understands, values and oped this pilot course to receive a targeted message plans for MyVector to con- apply for the online Air professional potential. uses formal and informal equip leaders with a coach- via MyPers with instruc- tain the platform for coach- Force Coaching Culture “There are many ef- coaching to amplify the ing skillset to enable and tions on how to apply via ing, similar to the mentoring Facilitator Course Pi- forts underway to estab- development of Airmen.” enhance the development MyVector; supervisors and program currently housed lot scheduled to begin in lish a coaching culture, While many people of Airmen. In addition, this senior raters must approve there. Based on the success April 2021. one of which is build- are knowledgeable about course provides a stepping the application. The senior of the pilot, the course will Coaching is a volun- ing an Air Force internal sponsorship and mentor- stone for those seeking an rater can then nominate no open to a larger population tary process facilitating coaching cadre through ing, they aren’t always as International Coach Fed- more than one applicant to include wage-grade and eration credential. from each of the eligible bargaining unit employees. Seven members from categories. For more informa- each applicant group will The application win- tion on how to apply, visit be selected to engage in dow opens Jan. 15, and will the CAC-enabled MyPers 74 hours of training over close after the first 100 ap- website at https://mypers. 15 weeks. Upon successful plications from each group af.mil/app/answers/ completion of the course, have been received, or by detail/a_id/49733. DAF Chief Data Office launches unprecedented data governance training, certification program

By Secretary of the Air vision for data manage- helm,” Vidrine said. “We Force Public Affairs ment, digital technology, are focused on upscaling and the future of (artificial our data resources by le- ARLINGTON, Va. intelligence) within the Air veraging our most signifi- (AFNS) – The Air and Force and other branches. I cant asset … our people.” Space Forces Chief Data feel privileged to be part of The course covers Office introduced a new this first-ever effort within Public Sector Data Gov- training and certifica- a military branch,” Vidrine ernance Mission Drivers tion program for data of- continued. “The future of and Deliverables, Data ficers last fall, bringing the Air Force is data and Governance Roles and forth a new Public Sector it is staring us right in the Responsibilities, and the Data Governance Profes- face. How we approach Legal and Regulatory En- sional designation within and adapt to that data will vironment in which public the Department of the Air mean everything.” sector officials and service Force. The three-day train- Vidrine went on to say providers must operate. ing course will tackle an that there is only one con- The course was developed emerging need for data stant in data – that it will and is delivered under governance. The training, continue to increase. A strict instructional systems set to be offered monthly, 2018 Forbes article not- design methodologies and already has would-be par- ed that 90 percent of the a Registered Education ticipants vying for a spot world’s data was generated Provider for the Project in upcoming sessions. The in just two short years. And Management Institute. first training session in- the Association for Intelli- Upon completion of the cluded members of the Air gent Information Manage- course, the certification National Guard and the ment has cited that there is requires passage of the Navy, including the Navy’s an increasing connection PSDG test, administered deputy chief data officer. between information gov- by ICCP-approved exam “This is certainly an ex- ernance and strategy, with proctors. citing time for data, and the more than “70 percent of “This is just the be- launch of this robust train- organizations considering ginning, but what a great ing and certification pro- information governance as start,” Vidrine said. “We gram is taking us several ‘important’ or ‘critical’ to have mountains of data to steps in the right direction,” their business strategy.” climb, and we must have said Eileen Vidrine, Air and “We can and will ex- the right people and a suc- Space Forces chief data cel in efficient, automated cession plan for the right officer. “Workforce readi- governance with the right people in place to be com- ness and data governance structures and the best- petitive and proactive on are key factors in a larger trained personnel at the the world’s stage.” February 1, 2021 • 9 Civilian Developmental Education key to leadership, growth

By Marisa tive Director. “These civilian pro- developmental opportunities for Alia-Novobilski fessional development programs our civilian force,” said Young. Air Force Materiel help us develop strong leaders “The application window is Command and supervisors at all levels so short, which is why civilians need we can meet the challenges of the to prepare now.” WRIGHT-PATTERSON ever-changing world in which we Employee applications for AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – En- live.” boarded programs must be suring civilian Airmen are pre- With more than 30 academic submitted by Feb. 12 and non- pared to fulfill and excel in lead- programs at multiple lengths and boarded applications by Feb. 26 ership positions across the com- levels, the development portfolio through MyVECTOR at https:// mand is the driving force behind has programs suitable for individu- MyVECTOR.us.af.mil/MyVEC- the dedicated effort by Air Force als at every stage of their career. TOR. Endorsers have until March Materiel Command leaders to en- These include opportunities for 13 to finalize and complete their courage employees to apply for civilians to attain associate through portion of the application. upcoming Civilian Development advanced college degrees; par- “We all need to continue to Education opportunities. ticipation in military professional The application period for Academic Year 2022 Civilian Devel- develop. If we aren’t continually The application period for Ac- education programs such as Air opmental Education, Civilian Strategic Leader Program, and learning, then we risk becoming ademic Year 2022 Civilian Devel- War College and Squadron Officer Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program is Jan. 13 through stagnant. CDE offers something opmental Education (CDE), Ci- School; industry fellowships; short March 13. to meet the needs of each Airman vilian Strategic Leader Program and long-term seminars; and more. “Civilians are encouraged More than 2,000 AFMC civil- as they continue to change and (CSLP), and Engineer and Scien- Programs are categorized into to speak with their supervisors ians applied for spots in 34 pro- develop personally and profes- tist Exchange Program (ESEP) is multiple areas: Civilian Develop- and leaders now to determine grams across the Department of sionally. I encourage you to meet Jan 13 through March 13, 2021. mental Education (Basic, Interme- the training that would best meet Defense in 2020. Of those who with your supervisor and mentors “A planned approach to con- diate, Senior); Academic/Fellow- their needs. Taking the right applied, more than 32 percent to find an option that would be tinuing professional development ships; Leadership Seminars and course, seminar or training at were selected during the compet- right for you,” said Young. not only improves job perfor- Short Courses; and Experiential the right time is key, and get- itive process at all levels of the For more information on mance but also helps our civil- Assignments. While some de- ting feedback as one develops developmental spectrum. eligibility requirements and full ians put themselves in charge of velopmental opportunities are an application package from a “Our goal this year is to in- program details, visit the myPers their own career development in person, others are executed mentor or other leader can help crease the number of applicants Civilian Force Development web- and work-related ambitions,” said through distance learning and in ensure they are on the right and program selections, ulti- site at https://mypers.af.mil/app/ Patricia M. Young, AFMC Execu- a seminar format. track,” said Young. mately increasing the number of categories/p/2/c/549. Physical health can’t be on back burner

By Civilian Health and mental health concerns tion or quality can suppress Promotion Services and ask about availability for our immune system, brain (CHPS) telehealth appointments. function, mood and general Stay active. Regular mental health, all while in- HILL AIR FORCE physical activity can boost creasing stress. The CDC BASE, Utah – The COV- the immune system, prevent recommends adults age 18- ID-19 pandemic has changed weight gain, reduce stress and 60 years get seven or more many of our daily routines, anxiety and improve sleep. hours of sleep per night. You making it easy to put healthy The CDC recommends at can establish healthy sleep habits on the back burner. least 150 minutes of moder- habits by keeping a consis- And it can be especially dif- ate-intensity aerobic activity tent sleep schedule, making ficult if you’re working from and at least 2 days of muscle- you bedroom quiet and re- or home or caring for other strengthening activity each laxing, avoiding caffeine in family members – or both. week. To move more and sit the late afternoon or evening, As we continue to cope, we less, you can start with 5-10 and turning off electronic can still make physical health minute intervals of activities devices at least 30 minutes with weekly meal planning, a video- or tele-conference and participate in interac- a priority in our day-to-day like walking, biking, on- before bedtime. If sleep prob- grocery shopping and prepar- class for your organization. tive learning programs for routine by taking care of our line fitness classes, and yard lems persist, contact your ing healthy meals at home. The CHPS staff is also avail- stress, tobacco, weight, and health, engaging in physi- work. Muscle-strengthening healthcare provider. The Civilian Health Pro- able to consult with civilians chronic disease manage- cal activity, getting adequate activities can include using Healthy nutrition. Well- motion Services (CHPS) individually via phone and ment; get current informa- sleep, and eating healthy. weight equipment, resis- nourished bodies are better program can also help with email to assist with their tion on health topics, down- Healthcare mainte- tance bands, or body weight prepared to cope with stress, your health goals through health and wellness con- load healthy recipes, watch nance. Even amid a pan- exercises like push-ups and so be mindful of what you their in-person and virtual cerns. recorded CHPS educational demic, it’s critical to keep sit-ups to work the major eat and work on building health and wellness services. More resources and as- classes at your convenience, up with preventive care like muscle groups. You should healthy eating habits one goal HILL CHPS is currently of- sistance is available 24/7 at and more! annual checkups, immuniza- consult with your healthcare at a time. The USDA recom- fering wellness screenings our wellness website por- In addition to these sug- tions, and health screenings. provider before beginning an mends following a healthy (cholesterol/blood sugar, tal – USAFwellness.com. gestions, be sure to practice You can continue taking care exercise routine and work to eating pattern by consuming blood pressure, body com- Visit the site via any web- CDC guidance on social of your health care needs by slowly increase duration and a variety of colorful vegeta- position) by appointment. enabled device and create distancing, self-care, self- taking medications as pre- intensity of exercise as toler- bles and fruits, whole grains, You can also attend one an account to complete a quarantine, wearing of cloth scribed and managing any ated. fat-free or low-fat dairy, a va- of our monthly scheduled health risk assessment for masks when social distanc- chronic conditions such as Adequate sleep. Good riety of protein foods, healthy virtual health education a baseline on your current ing is not possible and talk- high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep is essential to your fats and oils, and limiting classes on topics like nutri- health status; utilize track- ing with your healthcare asthma and others. Be sure to overall health, especially foods high in saturated fats, tion, physical activity, sleep, ing tools for physical activ- provider about any concerns reach out to your healthcare during a time of constant added sugars, and sodium. and stress management or ity minutes, steps, sleep and you may have regarding provider with any physical change. Lack of sleep dura- Involve the whole family contact CHPS to schedule nutrition; pursue daily goals your health. 10 • February 1, 2021 Arnold AFB Milestones 40 YEARS 15 YEARS RETIREMENTS Constance Mooney, AF Marion Bragg, TOS Kerrie Adams, TOS James Hicks, TOS Barbara Newkirk, AF Edward Simmons, TOS Christopher Gipson, TOS Staff Sgt. Jodie Humphres, AF Andrew North, AF Brandon Wiley, TOS Frank Logan, TOS Hayden Nunley, TOS 30 YEARS Maverick Mosley, TOS Tyler Pearsall, TOS Leslie McGowan, AF 10 YEARS Kenneth Simmons, TOS Bradley Peckinpaugh, TOS Tony Pennington, AF Christopher Benedict, TOS Marc Smotherman, TOS Abimael Rivera Lopez, TOS Glenda Terrill, TOS Douglas Warren, AF Jeff Smartt, FSS Mark Sain, TOS Wayne Whittington, TOS Kyle Stewart, FSS 5 YEARS Cole Stovall, TOS 25 YEARS Darrell Agnew, TOS NEW HIRES Rodney Thomas, TOS Mark Sisk, TMAS Jeffery Brothers, TOS William Akin, TOS Michael Levan, TOS Jennifer Burdett, AF PROMOTIONS 20 YEARS Christopher Limbaugh, TOS Ross Hatfield, TOS Adam Doyle, AF, promoted to first Shannon Tibbals, TOS Christopher Nykamp, TOS Jeffrey Hooper, TOS lieutenant Newly-acquired AFRL test aircraft to aid personnel recovery research

By Holly Jordan Air Force Research Laboratory

WRIGHT-PAT- TERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFNS) – A small aircraft that is poised to make a big im- pact on military person- nel recovery made a brief stop in the Dayton area on its way to St. Mary’s County, Maryland, where it will be used to test the Air Force Research Lab- oratory-developed Low Altitude Sensing Helmet system. The CubCrafters XCub aircraft was ferried from Yakima, Washing- ton, to Lewis A. Jackson Regional Airport near Dayton, on its journey The Air Force Research Laboratory’s Low Altitude Sensing Helmet, or LASH, Lysander XCub flies, Dec. 21, 2020 on its journey to the to the AFRL 711th Hu- AFRL 711th Human Performance Wing’s contracted research flight test organization facility in Maryland. The aircraft will be used to man Performance Wing’s advance the initial “Lysander” personnel recovery flight experiments. (U.S. Air Force photo by Richard Eldridge) contracted research flight personnel recovery and explained that the LASH ing helmet- and cockpit- ing experiment to test the 2021. If flight tests are test organization facil- other “featherweight air- system kit was designed mounted displays and LASH System kit. successful and program ity, Dec. 21. The aircraft lift” special missions, ac- to fill this need and pro- other wearable vision “If we can demon- objectives are achieved, was recently purchased cording to Dr. Darrel G. vide pilots with sensory aids for combat pilots, strate that the XCub can the LASH system could by AFRL to advance the Hopper, 711th Human situational awareness aircrews and special op- be flown safely at night be on track for technol- initial “Lysander” flying Performance Wing proj- required to fly safely, at erations warriors.” at low speed and low al- ogy transfer and possible experiment, which will ect lead. night, at extremely low After careful study titude using the LASH deployment as early as demonstrate the Low “The Air Force’s altitudes and slow air- of mission requirements night vision aids, then we 2022. Altitude Sensing Helmet CODE (Combat Opera- speeds. and aircraft capabilities, can expand LASH system “This system offers system, known as LASH. tions in Denied Environ- Hopper explained that AFRL researchers de- kit use to other types of the potential to greatly LASH, a portable kit ment) program deter- LASH came about after signed the LASH kit us- short takeoff and landing expand our capability to developed within the mined that these types of the Air Combat Com- ing a number of mostly general aviation aircraft.” perform necessary per- AFRL 711th Human Per- missions could not be ex- mand and the Air Force commercial-off-the-shelf After the aircraft sonnel recovery and re- formance Wing’s Air- ecuted effectively by the Strategic Development components. The kit was reaches the flight test or- lated missions,” Hopper man Systems Director- large aircraft that we have Planning and Experi- packaged into a compact, ganization in Maryland, it said. “The acquisition and ate, contains specialized been using over the last mentation office at AFRL easy-to-transport, one- will first be used to fit-test delivery of this test vehi- equipment including a 20 years in areas where asked the 711th Human person carrying system the LASH system. AFRL cle is a critical milestone flight helmet, a thermal we have air dominance,” Performance Wing’s Air- that could be easily fitted researchers and contrac- in getting the LASH tech- camera, night vision Hopper said. “Project man Systems Directorate temporarily to virtually tor partners will next re- nology and featherweight goggles and various oth- Lysander was conceived to lead this research ef- any small aircraft with- fine the installation and airlift capability into the er components. The kit as a method of rescuing fort. out additional modifica- de-installation process as hands of the warfighter.” can quickly and easily isolated personnel in both “They called on us tion. well as baseline-test met- Hopper added that af- be installed onto nearly heavily defended and un- based on our expertise in Hopper said the Cub- rics, and develop the as- ter the XCub test aircraft any general aviation air- defended airspace. A crit- this type of work,” Hop- Crafters XCub was iden- sociated test cards, while has completed its role in craft to equip pilots for ical element of the project per explained. “Our di- tified by ACC as the flying without the kit. this project, AFRL will low-level, low-speed, was determined to be a rectorate has decades of safest and most capable The first flights with the be able to use it as a test nighttime flight – some- carry-on kit that could al- experience in research- commercial-off-the-shelf LASH system are sched- asset for future research thing that is essential for low such operations.” He ing, developing and field- aircraft for the initial fly- uled for early spring projects as well. February 1, 2021 • 11 AFRL’s Starfire Optical Range discovers asteroid satellite

By Jeanne Dailey turn, their densities, fun- Air Force Research damental quantities that Laboratory can be found in no other way short of a spacecraft KIRTLAND AIR visit,” Drummond ex- FORCE BASE, N.M. plained. (AFRL) – “I was wrong,” In 2015, he and his said Air Force Research team at the SOR achieved Laboratory researcher, a scientific first, the- de Dr. Jack Drummond, tection and then the de- when looking back to termination of the orbit his early research on as- of another asteroid satel- teroids and their orbiting lite, Romulus, around the moons. asteroid Sylvia. The team Drummond is an as- did this with the smallest tronomer at AFRL’s telescope ever to fol- Directed Energy Direc- low an asteroid’s satel- torate Starfire Optical lite, the SOR 3.5-me- Range (SOR) located on ter telescope, which is Kirtland Air Force Base. much smaller than the 8 First as a government to10-meter diameter tele- civil servant, and now as scopes typically used to a Leidos contractor sup- observe them. Romulus porting AFRL, he has is 70 kilometers in di- spent decades studying ameter – 15 times larger the solar system, and his than Olympias. research has often fo- The SOR is widely cused on asteroid satel- recognized as one of the lites. world’s leading laser- Just what was he beacon adaptive optics Dr. Jack Drummond on Hawaii’s Mauna Kea telescope site. (Photo courtesy of AFRL) “wrong” about? and beam control re- Chagrined now, he search sites and her sci- engage him in a fruitful says, Drummond pub- entists are renowned for conversation on almost lished a paper in 1987 their expertise. The last any subject – he is a great that predicted there were two designated top sci- colleague to have on the no moons around aster- entists in the Air Force, SOR team.” oids because constant Robert Johnson, Ph.D., Following his earlier collisions would prevent and Odell Reynolds, observation, Drummond satellites from remaining Ph.D., work at the SOR. explained, at the time, in orbit. Since then doz- Reynolds has been in- that his next step in this ens have been found, he strumental in obtaining research would be to see said. the challenging obser- how small a moon he and Drummond and his vations of Romulus and his team could detect team recently discovered Sylvia, and Olympias around an asteroid, using a small satellite named and Roxane. the SOR’s laser guidestar Olympias around the as- The Starfire Optical system. teroid Roxane – a sight- Range houses the De- “This breakthrough in ing they did not antici- partment of Defense’s discovering Olympias is pate. Their results were second largest telescope, very exciting, he said. “It published this month the 3.5-meter telescope, is the first orbit I derived, (January 2021) in “Ica- and several smaller tele- and it turns out to be the rus, the Journal of Solar scopes. The site is lo- only satellite around an System Studies.” cated within the Directed asteroid, so far in the ‘I didn’t expect to Energy Directorate’s solar system, that orbits ever detect a satellite Space Electro-Optics Di- backwards.” as small as Olympias vision, which the Secre- “Our moon, for ex- around an asteroid be- tary of the Air Force an- ample, goes around the cause asteroids them- nounced as a unit of the Earth in the same sense selves are faint and the U.S. Space Force in early as the Earth goes around satellites even fainter,” 2020. the Sun, as do all of the Drummond said. “But to “For the past 30 years other asteroid satellites,” our surprise, it wasn’t all Dr. Drummond has been Drummond continued. that hard. The key is us- SOR’s resident astrono- “This is evidence that ing adaptive optics and a mer,” said Col. Peter both Roxane and Olym- sodium laser, technolo- Norton, the Space Elec- pias were formed from gies that were pioneered tro-Optics division chief. the same catastrophic and refined at the SOR.” “He has a vast depth of collision eons ago (be- Asteroid Roxane and its satellite Olympias shown over New Mexico to give a sense of scale. The true orbit of Olympias around Roxane is the large circle, Drummond explains astronomical observing cause Roxane also ro- and the sizes of Roxane and Olympias are the filled circles. Olympias orbits that the asteroid Roxane experience, which the tates backwards), but around Roxane every 12 days. (Image courtesy of AFRL) is 19 kilometers in diam- telescope crew and re- remained gravitationally eter and Olympias is 5 searchers have come to attached throughout – a made satellites in close continue to improve our Learn more about kilometers, and that they rely upon.” very rare occurrence.” proximity to each other, methods to study closely Dr. Odell Reynolds’ re- orbit in the main asteroid “Jack is as passionate Drummond’s research allowing us to see both spaced objects (CSO). cent award at: https:// belt, between Mars and about discovering new has importance for both the good guys and bad After all, there are a lot www.afrl.af.mil/News/ Jupiter. entities in the asteroid the military and commer- guys,” he said. “These of fainter and closer ob- Article-Display/Arti- “Determining an or- belt of our solar system, cial sectors. same techniques are be- jects to be studied, and cle/2464371/afrl-engi- bit of a satellite around as he is about birding “The techniques used ing used to search for CSO projects remain neer-award-winner-pro- an asteroid leads to find- and coaching softball,” in this study apply di- planets around stars.” a high priority for the claims-a-first-for-the- ing their masses, and in Norton said. “You can rectly to studying man- “We would like to Space Force.” us-space-force/. 12 • February 1, 2021