NASA's High-Flying Fleet: A Closer Look at Their Aircraft

Did you know NASA isn't just about rockets and space shuttles? They also fly some pretty impressive aircraft! NASA was created in 1958 to explore space and improve aeronautics. Over the years, they've sent astronauts to the moon and even built their own space station. But what about their aircraft? NASA has a bunch of them! Some are used for research, like at the Glenn Research Center, while others, like a fancy business jet, are used to fly important people around. Let's talk about this business jet. It's a Gulfstream V, which is a big, long-range plane. NASA got it in 2016, and since then, it's been flying a lot. In 2024 alone, it flew 51 times, used over 66, 000 gallons of fuel, and visited airports in Texas, Florida, and even Scotland! This plane is special because it has upgraded engines that make it more efficient and powerful. It can fly really high and really far, making it perfect for NASA's needs.But why does NASA need a business jet? Well, it's not just for fun. NASA uses it to move astronauts and important officials to different places. It's like their own personal taxi service for space adventures! Plus, it's more comfortable and faster than commercial flights, which is great for those long trips. NASA's aircraft might not be as famous as their spacecraft, but they play a big role in their missions. From research to transportation, these planes help NASA explore and discover new things every day.