Flight test of IR sensors on NASA 757 at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF)

Researchers at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Langley Research Center are developing a synthetic vision system (SVS) to provide pilots the safety and operational benefits of VFR (visual flight rule)-like capabilities during instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). One system concept (promoted by NASA) augments the SVS concept with real-time feedback from a suite of sensors, which have been historically referred to as enhanced vision (EV) technologies. As part of the EV element, a three-camera system that includes a CCD, short-wave IR, and long-wave IR camera has been developed to provide infra-red imagery to enhance the SVS concept. The system was previously tested during a field deployment to Colorado´s Eagle County Airport during August of 2001. On May 15, 2002, the NASA FLIR pod was flown for the first time during dusk and night conditions at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF). The test included three taxis, two take-offs, and eight approaches including two landings. The results from the test were significant to the continued development of the system. This paper presents the background of the system, the description of the sensors, flight test results, planned enhancements to the system, and future test plans.