A new research aircraft with exceptional capabilities has taken to the skies. The aircraft, known as the High-performance Instrumented Airborne Platform for Environmental Research (HIAPER), began operations in 2005 and will be used by the National Science Foundation to obtain critical insights into the atmosphere and other natural systems. Operated and maintained by the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado, HIAPER is designed to meet environmental research needs for the nation over then next several decades.

HIAPER's maximum altitude and range set it apart from other research aircraft. A modified Gulfstream V, it will be able to reach 51,000 feet (15,500 meters), enabling scientists to collect data at the tops of storms and the lower edge of the stratosphere. With a range of about 7,000 miles (11,265 kilometers), it can track atmospheric particles across the oceans or reach the South Pole from bases in South America or New Zealand.

Such attributes, plus the ability to carry 5,600 pounds (2,540 kilograms) of state-of-the-art sensors, mean HIAPER will be on the forefront of scientific discovery. Scientists will be able to probe the upper edges of hurricanes and thun­derstorms in unprecedented detail, determining the dynamics that drive these powerful storms. The aircraft will enable the researchers to study pivotal chemical processes high above Earth that affect global temperatures. HIAPER can also pro­vide satellite mapping information and will play an important role in recalibrating satellite instruments.

Learn More About HIAPER's Potential

As a service to the community, a promotional brochure about HIAPER and its research potential has been released by NCAR. This brochure is available for download from the link below, or by clicking on one of the following thumbnail images:

Download File/Document File Type/Size New Heights in Environmental Research HIAPER Promotional Brochure PDF*, 902KB

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