NASA Stennis expands range operations with new Skydweller Aero agreement

NASA Stennis expands range operations with new Skydweller Aero agreement
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Oct 25, 2024

NASA's Stennis Space Center, located near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, has entered into a Reimbursable Space Act agreement with Skydweller Aero Inc., allowing the company to operate its solar-powered autonomous aircraft within the center's restricted airspace. This partnership marks a significant step in expanding the center's uncrewed systems testing and operational capabilities.

"There are few locations like NASA Stennis that offer a secure location, restricted airspace, and the infrastructure to support testing and operation of various uncrewed systems," said John Bailey, Director of NASA Stennis. "Range operations is a critical area of focus as we adapt to the changing aerospace and technology landscape to grow into the future."

The agreement, finalized in August, enables Skydweller Aero to conduct test flights of its large autonomous aircraft, which boasts a wingspan larger than a Boeing 747 and is designed for long-duration missions. The company completed its initial test flights in early October, including two flights lasting 16 and 22.5 hours.

Discussions between NASA Stennis and Skydweller Aero began in mid-2023, with the company identifying the NASA Stennis airspace as a prime location for testing due to its proximity to Stennis International Airport and the Gulf of Mexico. The airspace offers privacy essential for testing such advanced technology.

"Access to the restricted airspace above NASA Stennis has been tremendously helpful to our uncrewed, autonomous flight operations," commented Barry Matsumori, president and COO of Skydweller Aero. "The controlled environment helps accelerate our efforts, allowing us to transition the aircraft in and out of civil airspace, while demonstrating its reliability and unblemished safety record to the FAA."

Skydweller Aero, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense, is conducting public aircraft operations, qualifying the company for the agreement under the FAA's guidelines for restricted airspace use. This arrangement supports future test flights within NASA Stennis' designated airspace buffer zone and is seen as a major step in expanding the center's range operations.

"This really opens the door for others to come here," explained Jason Peterson, NASA Stennis range officer. "There are requirements that must be met, but for those who meet them, NASA Stennis is an ideal location for test and flight operations."

NASA Stennis has supported uncrewed flight operations since the FAA established restricted airspace at the center in 1966, with further expansions in 2016. This airspace facilitates safe propulsion testing and supports U.S. Department of Defense missions and unmanned aerial systems activities.

NASA Stennis personnel oversee scheduling and range operations, ensuring safe flight activities through close communication between operators, FAA air traffic control, and safety teams. With the Skydweller Aero partnership, Peterson sees potential for further collaborations, particularly as NASA Stennis expands its range capabilities to include marine and ground testing operations.

The center's extensive facilities include a secure 7.5-mile canal system that could be used for testing unmanned surface and underwater vehicles, underscoring the center's aim to broaden its operational reach.