Aerospace Archives - Community Science https://communityscienceacademy.com/category/aerospace/ Tech and Science Coverage Tue, 10 Sep 2024 11:28:29 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 223423655 NASA Outlines Emergency Return Plan for Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/09/10/nasa-outlines-emergency-return-plan-for-astronauts-sunita-williams-and-butch-wilmore/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/09/10/nasa-outlines-emergency-return-plan-for-astronauts-sunita-williams-and-butch-wilmore/#comments Tue, 10 Sep 2024 11:28:27 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=557 NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stranded in space for over three months, now have a backup plan for returning to Earth in case of an emergency. The two astronauts were initially sent to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, which was expected to be part of a […]

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NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stranded in space for over three months, now have a backup plan for returning to Earth in case of an emergency.

The two astronauts were initially sent to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, which was expected to be part of a week-long mission. However, the spacecraft returned to Earth safely on September 6, but without Williams and Wilmore, as it was deemed unfit for their safe return.

In response to this situation, NASA has reconfigured SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, which is currently docked at the ISS, to serve as an emergency return vehicle for Williams and Wilmore. The Crew Dragon, supporting NASA’s Crew-8 mission, is now equipped to bring them back to Earth if needed, while they await the arrival of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission. This mission is scheduled for launch no earlier than September 24.

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NASA has reassured the public that Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are not alone aboard the ISS. They have integrated with the Expedition 71 crew, which includes fellow NASA astronauts Matthew Dominick, Mike Barratt, Jeanette Epps, and Tracy C. Dyson, along with Roscosmos cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko, Nikolai Chub, and Alexander Grebenkin. Together, the crew is working on various scientific and maintenance projects.

Despite the longer-than-expected stay, the astronauts have been keeping busy. NASA reports that the crew has been supporting essential research, experimenting with new methods to produce fiber optic cables, and even growing plants aboard the space station. These activities are part of their ongoing efforts to explore and develop technologies that will benefit future space missions and life on Earth.

In the meantime, NASA remains confident that the reconfigured SpaceX Dragon spacecraft will be a reliable solution if Williams and Wilmore need to make an emergency return. With the Crew-9 mission’s launch on the horizon, NASA continues to prioritize the safety of its astronauts as they complete their extended mission aboard the ISS.

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Sunita Williams Return to Earth: NASA’s Latest Update https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/23/sunita-williams-return-to-earth-nasas-latest-update/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/23/sunita-williams-return-to-earth-nasas-latest-update/#respond Fri, 23 Aug 2024 08:48:49 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=547 NASA has recently provided a crucial update regarding astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who are currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Despite a significant delay in their return, the space agency assures that both astronauts are safe and not “stuck” in space, contrary to some media reports. The delay stems from technical issues […]

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NASA has recently provided a crucial update regarding astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who are currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

Despite a significant delay in their return, the space agency assures that both astronauts are safe and not “stuck” in space, contrary to some media reports. The delay stems from technical issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, which has raised concerns about its return capabilities.

The complications began when Starliner, which was supposed to bring Williams and Wilmore back to Earth, encountered a series of malfunctions. Specifically, the spacecraft experienced failures with several thrusters and helium leaks within its propulsion system. Although engineers managed to restore functionality to four of the five malfunctioning thrusters, the situation remains precarious, especially regarding a successful de-orbit maneuver.

Do you know how much sunita williams net worth or sunita williams salary

With an estimated net worth of $7 million, astronaut sunita williams net worth financial success reflects her distinguished career. Her contributions to space exploration, from repairing spacecraft to advancing scientific research, are a testament to her remarkable skills and dedication.

NASA and Boeing are currently conducting an in-depth investigation into the causes of these technical problems. The space agency is taking this additional time to thoroughly assess the spacecraft’s issues to ensure a safe and reliable return plan for the astronauts. In the meantime, Williams and Wilmore continue their important work aboard the ISS, participating in scientific research and maintaining the station.

Given the current situation, NASA is considering an alternative plan to return the astronauts. The space agency is contemplating a rescue mission using a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule. This unplanned intervention would transform Boeing’s first crewed Starliner flight into a critical rescue operation.

The return of Williams and Wilmore has been rescheduled to February 2025, following the delay of the SpaceX Crew-9 mission to the ISS. NASA has pushed the Crew-9 launch to September 24 to accommodate this change.

Boeing has publicly assured the safety of the Starliner spacecraft. However, NASA officials have expressed reservations, emphasizing the importance of resolving the spacecraft’s issues before determining the final return plan.

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Experts Predict Boeing’s Starliner Could Collide with International Space Station https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/16/experts-predict-boeings-starliner-could-collide-with-international-space-station/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/16/experts-predict-boeings-starliner-could-collide-with-international-space-station/#respond Fri, 16 Aug 2024 06:47:41 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=539 Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is facing a severe crisis that could result in a catastrophic collision with the International Space Station (ISS), according to experts. The spacecraft, currently housing astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, has encountered critical issues that could lead to a dangerous situation in space. astronaut sunita williams net worth? Recent reports indicate […]

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Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is facing a severe crisis that could result in a catastrophic collision with the International Space Station (ISS), according to experts.

The spacecraft, currently housing astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, has encountered critical issues that could lead to a dangerous situation in space.

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Recent reports indicate that the Starliner has experienced problems with its thrusters, leading to concerns about its stability and control. Engineers on Earth have been working diligently to address the leaks and other technical issues, but the spacecraft remains stranded in orbit.

With repair efforts ongoing, there are fears that the spacecraft could lose control and crash into the ISS, potentially causing billions in damage and endangering the lives of the astronauts on board. sunita williams net worth

The situation has grown more dire as experts warn that attempting to bring the Starliner back to Earth before resolving the thruster problems could exacerbate the risk of it spiraling out of control.

Business Insider reports that the spacecraft’s vulnerabilities are still being assessed, and project managers have yet to provide clear answers regarding the safety of the astronauts and the extent of the issues with the Starliner. sunita williams salary. There are also questions about whether these problems were known prior to the mission’s launch.

As of now, there are no definitive updates on when the Boeing Starliner will return to Earth. All previously scheduled return dates have been postponed or rescheduled due to ongoing technical difficulties, leaving the spacecraft—and its crew—in a precarious situation as engineers continue to work on a solution.

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Want to become aerospace engineer? Here is all you should know https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/15/want-to-become-aerospace-engineer-here-is-all-you-should-know/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/15/want-to-become-aerospace-engineer-here-is-all-you-should-know/#respond Thu, 15 Aug 2024 08:35:21 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=486 Becoming an aerospace engineer is an interesting and hard career path that involves designing, constructing, testing, and maintaining aeroplanes, spacecraft, and related systems. From supersonic planes to spacecraft heading for distant planets, these professionals define the future of aeronautical technology. If you’re interested in pushing the boundaries of human exploration and engineering, this is a […]

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Becoming an aerospace engineer is an interesting and hard career path that involves designing, constructing, testing, and maintaining aeroplanes, spacecraft, and related systems. From supersonic planes to spacecraft heading for distant planets, these professionals define the future of aeronautical technology. If you’re interested in pushing the boundaries of human exploration and engineering, this is a career path that can take you to the sky.

Educational Requirements:

To embark on a career in aerospace engineering, the first step is obtaining a bachelor’s degree in the field. This typically involves four years of undergraduate study in aerospace engineering or a closely related discipline such as mechanical engineering or aerospace systems engineering. For those looking to pursue advanced research or specialize in specific areas, pursuing a master’s or Ph.D. in aerospace engineering is a viable option.

Core Skills

Aerospace engineering relies heavily on mathematics and physics, so a strong foundation in these subjects is essential. As well as proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) and programming languages. You’ll delve into complex calculations, aerodynamics, structural analysis, and materials science. Effective communication and teamwork skills are equally vital, as engineers often collaborate on multidisciplinary projects.

Gain Relevant Experience

The aerospace industry can offer beneficial networking opportunities and hands-on experience through internships and co-op programmes. Take part in aerospace-related engineering projects or contests to expand your skill set.

Salary Expectations:

Aerospace engineers can earn competitive salaries, with variations based on factors like experience, education, location, and the specific sector they work in. A fresh graduate with a bachelor’s degree might expect a beginning income of Rs 4 to 7 lakh per year on average. With expertise and additional degrees, this amount can explode, with mid-level engineers earning between Rs 8 and 15 lakh per year. Senior aerospace engineers with substantial experience can make up to Rs 20 lakh per year, or even more in certain cases. Aerospace engineers are likely to be in high demand in the future, with a $1.5 billion budget committed to this area.

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Airbus to Build Two Radiometers for International Climate Satellite Mission https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/13/airbus-to-build-two-radiometers-for-international-climate-satellite-mission/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/13/airbus-to-build-two-radiometers-for-international-climate-satellite-mission/#respond Tue, 13 Aug 2024 06:16:59 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=532 Airbus has been chosen by the French Space Agency (CNES) to design and manufacture two advanced microwave radiometers for the C²OMODO mission, a key component of the Atmosphere Observing System (AOS). This international collaboration involves the United States, Canada, Japan, Italy, and France, and aims to enhance our understanding of the links between aerosols, clouds, […]

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Airbus has been chosen by the French Space Agency (CNES) to design and manufacture two advanced microwave radiometers for the C²OMODO mission, a key component of the Atmosphere Observing System (AOS).

This international collaboration involves the United States, Canada, Japan, Italy, and France, and aims to enhance our understanding of the links between aerosols, clouds, atmospheric convection, and precipitation.

The C²OMODO mission, which stands for Convective Core Observations through MicrOwave Derivatives in the trOpics, is part of a broader initiative involving six satellites and various suborbital platforms both in the air and on the ground. This extensive network will provide crucial data to improve weather forecasts, air quality assessments, and climate predictions.

Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus, expressed enthusiasm about the project, highlighting the significance of working on climate missions. “Just a few weeks after the launch of the EarthCARE mission with Europe and Japan, it is an honor to be part of another climate mission, this time NASA-led with international partners,” said Fauré.

He also thanked CNES for their support, noting that this contract further solidifies Airbus’s role in advancing our understanding of clouds, weather, and climate.

The C²OMODO mission will deliver the first global observations of vertical air motions and precipitation properties in convective storms. This capability will enhance our understanding of intense precipitation formation and improve the representation of these processes in weather models, leading to more accurate global weather forecasts.

The high-frequency microwave radiometers, designed and built in Toulouse, France, will be installed on two AOS satellites: AOS-Storm, led by the U.S., and the Precipitation Measuring Mission (PMM), led by Japan. The radiometers will work together in an inclined orbit, providing valuable data for the mission’s objectives.

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Sunita Williams Net Worth https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/10/sunita-williams-net-worth/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/08/10/sunita-williams-net-worth/#comments Sat, 10 Aug 2024 06:30:33 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=528 Sunita Williams, born on September 19, 1965, in Euclid, Ohio, is an American astronaut renowned for her remarkable achievements in space exploration. Her fascination with space began early, leading her to pursue a path in aerospace and military aviation. In 1983, Williams enrolled at the U.S. Naval Academy, where she excelled in her studies and […]

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Sunita Williams, born on September 19, 1965, in Euclid, Ohio, is an American astronaut renowned for her remarkable achievements in space exploration.

Her fascination with space began early, leading her to pursue a path in aerospace and military aviation. In 1983, Williams enrolled at the U.S. Naval Academy, where she excelled in her studies and developed a strong foundation for her future career. Graduating in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Science, she was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy.

Military and Aviation Career:

Williams’ career in aviation began with her training at the Naval Aviation Training Command, where she earned her wings as a naval aviator. She went on to serve in various capacities, including flying helicopters for the U.S. Navy. Her service included notable assignments such as participating in the Persian Gulf War, establishing no-fly zones over Kurdish areas in Iraq, and conducting relief missions after Hurricane Andrew in 1992.

Space Exploration:

Sunita Williams’ journey to space began with her selection as a NASA astronaut in 1998. She embarked on her first spaceflight in December 2006 aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery on STS-116. During this mission, she spent 194 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), where she conducted numerous scientific experiments and performed critical maintenance and repair work.

Williams’ second spaceflight commenced in July 2007 on the Space Shuttle Endeavour during the STS-118 mission. Over the course of this mission, she spent an additional 127 days in space, further advancing her record and contributions to space research. Her cumulative time in space exceeds 321 days, making her the second woman with the most time spent in space, following Peggy Whitson.

Sunita Williams is married to Michael J. Williams, a Federal law enforcement officer based in Oregon. Their partnership reflects a shared commitment to service and excellence.

Sunita Williams net worth

With an estimated net worth of $7 million, Sunita Williams’ financial success reflects her distinguished career. Her contributions to space exploration, from repairing spacecraft to advancing scientific research, are a testament to her remarkable skills and dedication.

Williams’ legacy extends beyond her time in space, serving as an inspiration to aspiring astronauts and space enthusiasts worldwide. Her career underscores the significance of perseverance and excellence in pushing the boundaries of human exploration.

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Weather forecasting, from space to your smartphone https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/02/07/weather-forecasting-from-space-to-your-smartphone/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2024/02/07/weather-forecasting-from-space-to-your-smartphone/#respond Wed, 07 Feb 2024 10:27:57 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=519 In the modern age, checking the weather forecast has become as effortless as tapping a few buttons on your smartphone. Yet, the journey from ancient weather sayings to today’s advanced predictions is a testament to human ingenuity and technological innovation. At the heart of this transformation lies the crucial role of satellites, particularly exemplified by […]

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In the modern age, checking the weather forecast has become as effortless as tapping a few buttons on your smartphone. Yet, the journey from ancient weather sayings to today’s advanced predictions is a testament to human ingenuity and technological innovation.

At the heart of this transformation lies the crucial role of satellites, particularly exemplified by the cutting-edge MetOp-SG satellites crafted by Airbus for the European Space Agency (ESA) and EUMETSAT.

Satellites like MetOp-SG serve as the vanguards of weather forecasting, providing an extensive array of precise data essential for enhancing numerical models and climate monitoring. Without these orbiting observers, the accuracy and reliability of weather forecasts would be greatly compromised.

Philippe Chambon, a researcher at Météo-France, underscores the pivotal role of satellite data, emphasizing that approximately 90% of the information utilized in numerical weather prediction models originates from Earth observation satellites like MetOp-SG. With its advanced instrumentation, these satellites promise to revolutionize forecasting accuracy, enabling meteorologists to anticipate weather patterns with unprecedented precision both globally and regionally.

But how does this process unfold? Imagine the atmosphere as a complex puzzle, with each piece representing various atmospheric parameters like temperature, humidity, wind patterns, and precipitation. Through a sophisticated network of observations, simulations, and analysis powered by numerical models, meteorologists decipher this puzzle to generate comprehensible weather forecasts for the masses.

The familiar icons of sun, clouds, and temperature readings that populate weather apps on our smartphones are the tangible outcomes of this intricate process—a culmination of data collection, analysis, and interpretation condensed into easily digestible information.

Beyond mere convenience, weather forecasting plays a critical role in safeguarding lives and livelihoods. By anticipating and warning against impending natural disasters such as storms and heatwaves, forecasters provide vital lead time for communities to prepare and mitigate potential damage, ultimately saving lives and preserving economic stability.

In essence, weather forecasting is a remarkable fusion of cutting-edge technology, scientific expertise, and human foresight. From the vast expanse of space to the palm of your hand, the journey of weather data underscores the remarkable progress humanity has made in understanding and predicting the complexities of the atmosphere, ensuring a safer and more informed tomorrow for all.

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VoltAero Performs the World’s First Flight of an Electric-Hybrid Aircraft https://communityscienceacademy.com/2023/09/22/voltaero-performs-the-worlds-first-flight-of-an-electric-hybrid-aircraft/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2023/09/22/voltaero-performs-the-worlds-first-flight-of-an-electric-hybrid-aircraft/#respond Fri, 22 Sep 2023 06:10:11 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=493 In a first for the aviation industry, TotalEnergies’ 100% sustainable fuel was used to power the patented electric-hybrid powertrain for VoltAero’s Cassio line of aircraft. The historic flight was conducted from VoltAero’s Royan, France, research and development centre. It used both the hybrid powertrain’s electric mode and its internal combustion engine, which was fueled by […]

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In a first for the aviation industry, TotalEnergies’ 100% sustainable fuel was used to power the patented electric-hybrid powertrain for VoltAero’s Cassio line of aircraft.

The historic flight was conducted from VoltAero’s Royan, France, research and development centre. It used both the hybrid powertrain’s electric mode and its internal combustion engine, which was fueled by TotalEnergies’ Excellium Racing 100, a bioethanol made from waste that comes from French vineyards.

By validating its electric-hybrid powertrain and the use of sustainable fuels, VoltAero’s Cassio S testbed aircraft was used for this significant demonstration, reducing the risk of airworthiness certification for upcoming production versions of the Cassio aircraft family.

The VoltAero propulsion concept is unique: Cassio aircraft will utilize an electric motor in the aft fuselage-mounted hybrid propulsion unit for all-electric power during taxi, takeoff, primary flight (if the distance traveled is less than 150 km.), and landing. The hybrid feature – with an internal combustion engine – comes into play as a range extender, recharging the batteries while in flight. Additionally, this hybrid element serves as a backup in the event of a problem with the electric propulsion, ensuring true fail-safe functionality.

Airplane Scale Model collection

The Cassio 330, with a four- or five-seat interior and 330 kilowatts of combined electric-hybrid motor, will be VoltAero’s first production aircraft. The six-seat Cassio 480 and the 10- or 12-seat Cassio 600, both of which have electric-hybrid propulsion systems with 480 and 600 kilowatts of combined power, will come after it.

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GKN and Pratt & Whitney collaborate to develop EWIS for hybrid demonstrator https://communityscienceacademy.com/2023/09/21/gkn-and-pratt-whitney-collaborate-to-develop-ewis-for-hybrid-demonstrator/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2023/09/21/gkn-and-pratt-whitney-collaborate-to-develop-ewis-for-hybrid-demonstrator/#respond Thu, 21 Sep 2023 10:22:18 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=490 Pratt & Whitney Canada and GKN Aerospace have a contract in place to work together on the creation of the High Voltage High Power EWIS for the RTX hybrid-electric flight demonstration project. The demonstrator, which aims to have a 30% increase in fuel efficiency and a reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the most modern […]

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Pratt & Whitney Canada and GKN Aerospace have a contract in place to work together on the creation of the High Voltage High Power EWIS for the RTX hybrid-electric flight demonstration project. The demonstrator, which aims to have a 30% increase in fuel efficiency and a reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the most modern regional turboprop aircraft currently in use, will also have its electrical wiring system developed, built, and installed as part of the arrangement.

The hybrid-electric propulsion system of the demonstrator combines a fuel-burning engine from Pratt & Whitney with a 1-megawatt electric motor created by Collins Aerospace. More effective engine performance will be possible during the various flying phases, including takeoff, climb, and cruise, through the hybrid-electric system. Business divisions of RTX include Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney.

The development and design of the High Voltage High Power EWIS for the hybrid-electric propulsion system will be led by GKN Aerospace in the Netherlands. After the design process, GKN Aerospace will be in charge of producing the required hardware and mounting it on the demonstrator aircraft.

Modern electrical distribution systems that are powering a substantial portion of today’s passenger flights and military aircraft are provided by GKN Aerospace, a renowned leader in engine systems and EWIS solutions for aircraft. Teams from all over the world, including Montreal, Canada, where the hybrid-electric flight demonstrator project is situated, provide assistance for GKN Aerospace’s EWIS centre of competence in the Netherlands.

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S-92 Helicopter: A Journey from Ocean Rescues to Sustainable Aviation Fuel Innovation https://communityscienceacademy.com/2023/09/18/s-92-helicopter-a-journey-from-ocean-rescues-to-sustainable-aviation-fuel-innovation/ https://communityscienceacademy.com/2023/09/18/s-92-helicopter-a-journey-from-ocean-rescues-to-sustainable-aviation-fuel-innovation/#respond Mon, 18 Sep 2023 07:20:51 +0000 https://communityscienceacademy.com/?p=483 In 2019, a Sikorsky S-92 helicopter was dispatched to the rescue after the cruise ship Viking Sky made a mayday call. Crews managed to rescue 479 stranded tourists off the troubled liner before it limped back to the port despite 25-foot waves and howling winds. This workhorse helicopter seems to be capable of almost anything: […]

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In 2019, a Sikorsky S-92 helicopter was dispatched to the rescue after the cruise ship Viking Sky made a mayday call. Crews managed to rescue 479 stranded tourists off the troubled liner before it limped back to the port despite 25-foot waves and howling winds.

This workhorse helicopter seems to be capable of almost anything: S-92s transport oil workers to offshore rigs, assist in border enforcement, and will soon transport the American president aboard Marine One. Even a booster rocket falling from space was caught in the air by an S-92 in 2021.

Two CT7-8A turboshaft engines from GE Aerospace, one of a class of engines that have accumulated more than 100 million flight hours since its introduction in the late 1970s, are powering this versatile helicopter.

As part of their maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) at ITP Aero, a Spanish company that also services CT7 engines for Leonardo’s AW189/AW149 and the S-92, CT7 engines will now operate on a mixture of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and conventional jet fuel. The recently announced effort intends to further integrate SAF into commercial aircraft operations while reducing CO2 emissions at ITP’s site.

When it comes to CT7 engine maintenance, GE Aerospace and ITP Aero are taking the initiative to employ a SAF blend as they both work towards a lower-carbon future in which there may be an energy transition for helicopters and aeroplanes. SAF can be produced from a range of materials, including biomass, algae, fats, greases, and even collected CO2 and hydrogen. A standard for 100% SAF is currently being developed, however all CT7 engines, a development of the T700, can now run on a mixture of up to 50% SAF and normal aviation fuel.

One of the CT7’s selling points has always been its ease of maintenance. A CT7 that requires maintenance is taken to a specialised facility, like the ITP Aero facility in Albacete, Spain, which was first settled by Moors on the banks of the Don Juan River in La Mancha. Any engine that is put back into operation must undergo testing and qualification procedures.

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