Low‐cost airborne astronomy imager to begin research phase

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Abstract
For decades, airborne astronomy and geophysical observations have proven useful adjuncts to ground‐based and space‐based instrumentation, particularly for optical and infrared studies [e.g., Larson, 1995].Compared to ground‐based instruments, airborne research platforms offer superior atmospheric transmission, the ability to reach remote and often otherwise inaccessible locations over the Earth, and virtually guaranteed good weather for observing the sky.Airborne platforms also offer substantial cost advantages over space‐based instruments.With funding from Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) and NASA, we have developed the hardware and tech‐niques to routinely conduct valuable astronomical and aeronomical observations from high‐performance, two‐seater military‐type aire raft. These platforms cost far less than larger, more conventional airborne platforms, offering savings that are often of an order of 10:1 per flight hour. Smaller platforms based throughout the world eliminate the need for expensive, campaignstyle movement of specialized large aircraft and logistics support teams, and can react faster to transient events. The Southwest Ultraviolet Imaging System‐Airborne (SWUIS‐A) imager has been flight tested in 14 airborne missions since 1997. With initial systems development and operational trials completed, a vigorous operational research phase is beginning.