Virtual Globetrotting: Scientific

Virtual Globetrotting: Scientific - Test Facility http://virtualglobetrotting.com/ A great way to explore everything that can be seen from space! en-us Copyright 2009 admin@virtualglobetrotting.com (Nic) admin@virtualglobetrotting.com (Nic) Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:31:43 -0800 http://backend.userland.com/rss <![CDATA[The Wall of Wind at the International Hurricane Research Center]]>

The Wall of Wind at the International Hurricane Research Center

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The Wall of Wind at the International Hurricane Research Center
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-11-08 13:31:43
Used in wind load testing.]]>

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The Wall of Wind at the International Hurricane Research Center
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-11-08 13:31:43
Used in wind load testing.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/the-wall-of-wind-at-the-international-hurricane-research-center/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/the-wall-of-wind-at-the-international-hurricane-research-center/ Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:31:43 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/the-wall-of-wind-at-the-international-hurricane-research-center/ 25.77039300 -80.36603200 <![CDATA[CNRC 9 m x 9 m Low Speed Wind Tunnel]]>

CNRC 9 m x 9 m Low Speed Wind Tunnel
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-10-07 10:16:30
The 9 m x 9 m Low Speed Wind Tunnel facility is located on the National Research Council (NRC) campus adjacent to the Ottawa International Airport. In operation since 1970, the facility serves the aerodynamic testing requirements of government agencies, research institutes and private companies, in addition to supporting ongoing internal R&D activities at the NRC Institute for Aerospace Research (NRC Aerospace). Major renovations were recently carried out on its fan drive, balance weigh-beam controls and data acquisition systems, as well on important mechanical components such as the cooling system and main drive shaft components.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/cnrc-9-m-x-9-m-low-speed-wind-tunnel/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/cnrc-9-m-x-9-m-low-speed-wind-tunnel/ Wed, 07 Oct 2009 10:16:30 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/cnrc-9-m-x-9-m-low-speed-wind-tunnel/ 45.33030600 -75.65713400 <![CDATA[Lockheed Martin SPY-1 Phased Array radar test facility]]>

Lockheed Martin SPY-1 Phased Array radar test facility

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Lockheed Martin SPY-1 Phased Array radar test facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-14 14:56:48
The AN/SPY-1D, AN/SPY-1D(V), SPY-1F, SPY-1F(V) and SPY-1K(V) form today's robust family of S-band multi-function phased array radar systems designed to meet the most demanding requirements and environments faced by naval forces.

A single SPY-1 multi-function radar system is unique in that it replaces numerous conventional stovepiped sensors resident on ships in the fleet today. Some of these sensors include:

* Long range volumetric search radar
* High data rate horizon search radar
* Surface search radar
* Fire control quality tracking radars

The result is a more integrated and higher capability sensor and weapon system that reduces system reaction time, enhances firepower, rejects unwanted interference and ensures safe and reliable operations. The S-band frequency range allows these systems to maintain their level of performance in all-weather operations, perform all major radar functions in a single aperture, and perform proven S-band mid-course guidance for semi-active missiles such as ESSM and SM-2.]]>

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Northrop Grumman Vertical Engine Test Stand (VETS)

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Northrop Grumman Vertical Engine Test Stand (VETS)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-14 12:56:07
Rocket and laser testing; capability to test at sea level or at altitude using steam ejector system to simulate altitude during testing.

The VETS test facility was designed and built in the 1960s to evaluate variable thrust engine characteristics, combustion efficiency and stability, specific impulse, thrust chamber life, nozzle performance, and other operational and reliability aspects of rocket engines and components.

Engines tested at VETS can be tested at sea level or at altitude using the VETS steam ejector system to simulate altitude during rocket engine testing.

In the mid 1970s the VETS area was selected as the location for high energy chemical laser testing. Three laser test facilities were constructed in the VETS area to take advantage of the existing steam ejectors system.]]>

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Northrop Grumman Propulsion Integrated Test Stand (PITS)

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Northrop Grumman Propulsion Integrated Test Stand (PITS)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-14 12:53:42
Hydrogen peroxide and hydrocarbon fuel facility with thrust capability of 70,000 pounds horizontally and 50,000 pounds vertically.

The Propulsion Integrated Test Stand (PITS) is a high strength steel I-beam structure with a work area that is 33 ft. wide by 41 ft deep and extends 50 feet to the floor of the canyon below. The structure has a single rocket engine test position on the upper level of the test stand.
Originally designed for vertical firing, this sea-level test position is now configured for horizontal firing.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrop-grumman-propulsion-integrated-test-stand-pits/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrop-grumman-propulsion-integrated-test-stand-pits/ Thu, 14 May 2009 12:53:42 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrop-grumman-propulsion-integrated-test-stand-pits/ 33.46273000 -117.54581900 <![CDATA[Northrop Grumman High Energy Propellant Test Stand (HEPTS)]]>

Northrop Grumman High Energy Propellant Test Stand (HEPTS)

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Northrop Grumman High Energy Propellant Test Stand (HEPTS)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-14 12:50:17
The HEPTS complex is a versatile test area that is available for component development testing of rocket engines, thrusters, gas generators, lasers and other combustion devices. Built in the mid 1960’s, the HEPTS complex is an active test area that has been upgraded and modified many times over the four decades since its construction. The facility has the capability to deliver high flow propellants at high pressures. HEPTS is equipped to supply a wide range of exotic reactants in gaseous, liquid and gel forms.

The HEPTS facility is divided into two areas with the HEPTS Control Center (HCC) positioned in the middle. The “A-side” is primarily used for rocket and propulsion testing while the “B-side” is used for testing both rockets and lasers. The facility has nine test cells capable of accommodating multiple programs and activities simultaneously.]]>

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Northrop Grumman Capistrano Chemical Facility

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Northrop Grumman Capistrano Chemical Facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-14 12:47:43
NGST's Chemistry facilities are part of the Mechanical Production Directorate. These facilities offer a full range of state-of-the-art equipment and instrumentation for analytical and research and development applications.

The chemistry facilities include a complete analytical chemistry laboratory located at NGST’s Space Park facility in Redondo Beach, a laboratory at NGST's Capistrano Test Site (CTS), and the Experimental Test Facility (ETF), at Space Park, for testing laser and propulsion systems.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrop-grumman-capistrano-chemical-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrop-grumman-capistrano-chemical-facility/ Thu, 14 May 2009 12:47:43 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrop-grumman-capistrano-chemical-facility/ 33.46092800 -117.56491500 <![CDATA[Northrop Grumman Fossil Energy Test Site (FETS)]]>

Northrop Grumman Fossil Energy Test Site (FETS)

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Northrop Grumman Fossil Energy Test Site (FETS)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-14 12:45:18
The FETS area was developed for testing, evaluation, and demonstration of fossil energy combustion devices. Various forms of coal combustion devices have been tested at FETS ranging from clean burning coal experiments to magneto hydrodynamic (MHD) electric generator development. The FETS test area has also been used for high-energy laser testing as well as laser component development testing.
Covering approximately ten acres, the FETS test area consists of three combustion test cells, two covered bays, a laser test pad, a control center, a warehouse, and an equipment storage area.
The FETS area has a 17,000-gallon cooling tower water system used for device thermal management during combustion testing. Cooling water is pumped by three 100 HP (1000 gpm) pumps to deliver water to each of the three test cells. There is a separate quench water system for cooling and scrubbing combustion gases.]]>

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Alamogordo Primate Facility (APF)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-08 12:48:54
The Alamogordo Primate Facility (APF), “established” in 2001, is maintained on the site of Holloman Air Force Base where chimpanzees have been bred, housed, experimented on, and killed since at least 1954. It is the second largest chimpanzee laboratory facility in the U.S.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/alamogordo-primate-facility-apf/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/alamogordo-primate-facility-apf/ Fri, 08 May 2009 12:48:54 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/alamogordo-primate-facility-apf/ 32.89007400 -106.08815800 <![CDATA[Crater from India's first atomic bomb]]>

Crater from India's first atomic bomb
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-04-17 14:19:56
The device used a high explosive implosion system, developed at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)'s Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh, based on the American design from World War II. But the Indian design was simpler and less sophisticated than the American system. The 6 kg of plutonium came from the CIRUS reactor at BARC, Trombay, Mumbai (then Bombay). The neutron initiator was a Polonium-Beryllium type (again like those used in early U.S. bombs of the Fat Man type) code-named "Flower." The complete core was assembled in Trombay before transportation to the test site. Prof.Dr. Abdul Kalam, was the pioneer behind the launch. An aeronautical engineer from Tamilnadu paved the way for India's ascent into an elite group of Nuclear states. Fondly called as 'Missile Man of India'

The fully assembled device had a hexagonal cross section, 1.25 m in diameter and weighed 1400 kg. The device was detonated at 8.05 a.m. in a shaft 107 m under the army Pokhran test range in the Thar Desert (or Great Indian Desert), Rajasthan. Coodinates of the crater are [show location on an interactive map] 27°05′42″N 71°45′11″E / 27.095, 71.753. Officially the yield was reported at 12 kt, though outside estimates of the yield vary from 2 kt to 20 kt. Pokhran is the test site for India's nuclear program.]]>

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-04-17 08:52:28
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency or JAXA, is Japan's national aerospace agency. JAXA was formed on October 1, 2003, as an Independent Administrative Institution through the merger of three previously independent organizations. JAXA is responsible for research, development and launch of satellites into orbit, and is fundamentally involved in many missions such as asteroid exploration and a possible human mission to the Moon.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/japan-aerospace-exploration-agency-jaxa/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/japan-aerospace-exploration-agency-jaxa/ Fri, 17 Apr 2009 08:52:28 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/japan-aerospace-exploration-agency-jaxa/ 35.68051300 139.55774100 <![CDATA[Wind tunnel]]>

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Wind tunnel
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-04-16 12:01:12]]>

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Wind tunnel
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-04-16 12:01:12]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wind-tunnel-2/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wind-tunnel-2/ Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:01:12 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wind-tunnel-2/ 37.08388600 -76.34148100 <![CDATA[Wind tunnel]]>

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Wind tunnel
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-04-16 12:00:13]]>

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Wind tunnel
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-04-16 12:00:13]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wind-tunnel-1/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wind-tunnel-1/ Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:00:13 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wind-tunnel-1/ 37.07886400 -76.34361800 <![CDATA[Boeing Boardman Radar Cross Section range]]>

Boeing Boardman Radar Cross Section range

Boeing Boardman Radar Cross Section range
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-04-09 15:59:32
Located in an isolated area west of Boardman, Oregon, the Boardman RCS range is owned and operated by Boeing. The facility consists of a radar array at the west end and a pylon for mounting test articles at the east end. The pylon can be covered by a large, moveable hangar, to protect sensitive test objects from view. When RCS testing is ongoing, the hangar slides out of the field of view of the radar sensors on a set of rails. The sliding shelter concept is similar to what was used at the former Grey Butte RCS test range.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/boeing-boardman-radar-cross-section-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/boeing-boardman-radar-cross-section-range/ Thu, 09 Apr 2009 15:59:32 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/boeing-boardman-radar-cross-section-range/ 45.74818100 -119.78839900 <![CDATA[Maneuvering and Seakeeping Basin]]>

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Maneuvering and Seakeeping Basin
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-03-14 18:48:52
The Maneuvering and Seakeeping Basin is unique within the Navy, and is used to model the full scale motions of ships, platforms, and mooring systems in waves. In this facility, engineers evaluate the maneuverability, propulsion, dynamic stability, and control of surface ships and submarines in waves and smooth water at various headings. The MASK is used in measuring model motions, accelerations, control surface deflections, hull strains, and wake characteristics at a wide variety of simulated sea states through a radio-controlled surface and submarine model capability. The facility is also used for capsizing tests and slamming studies.

The basin is rectangular, with a length of 360 ft, a width of 240 ft, and a depth of 20 ft. There are wave makers are on two perpendicular sides, large underwater viewing windows are located in the basin wall, recirculation filters keep water photographically clear, overhead catwalks & camera platforms are available for observation & photography, overhead traveling cranes are located in the fitting room areas & over the centerline of the basin. Some commercial applications for this facility include maritime ship evaluation, oil pollution abatement procedures, and oil exploration vessel development and evaluation.]]>

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8 x 10 ft Subsonic Wind Tunnel
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-03-14 18:40:44
The 8 x 10 ft Subsonic Wind Tunnel is a "general purpose" low Mach Number facility possessing good airflow characteristics, reasonable size, and maximum flexibility for mounting and testing a wide variety of aircraft, ships, and components.

The facility supports ship/aircraft interface technology and general fluid mechanics research and development. The Tunnel test section is constructed mainly of wood to permit easy alterations. Instrumentation includes external and internal force balances which are available for the measurement of fluid dynamic forces and moments on propeller and jet-powered models as well as miscellaneous components.]]>

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David Taylor Model Basin
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-03-14 18:37:49
The David Taylor Model Basin Building is 3200 feet long and houses three unique independent towing basin test facilities: the Shallow Water Basin, the Deep Water Basin, and the High Speed Basin. These model towing basins are among the largest and the best in the world. The seakeeping qualities and propulsion characteristics of models in head and following seas are determined in the Deep Water and High Speed Basins with wavemakers which are capable of producing either uniform or irregular waves.

These three Towing Basins are used for a wide variety of hydrodynamic tests including: resistance, self-propulsion, static stability in calm water, open water propeller characterizations, self-propelled model steering maneuvers, unsteady propeller blade force measurements, wake surveys, knot-meter calibrations under simulated dynamic conditions, vertical and horizontal planar motion experiments, hydrodynamic forces on submerged bodies, foils, etc., towed body experiments, and longitudinal wave cut experiments. The High Speed Basin is used to measure hydrodynamic forces on hydrofoils, planing boats, and other high speed craft operating in calm water and in waves. The water level in the Shallow Water Basin can be varied to simulate rivers, canals, and restricted channels.]]>

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Test facility for global positioning systems (SESSYL)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-02-04 09:57:20
A mobile rail-mounted carriage fitted with a three-axis platform follows a reference path that serves as the basis for comparing the path provided by the tested positioning system. This carriage and the test track together constitute "Sessyl", the positioning system evaluation facility set up at the LCPC Nantes Center between 1994 and 1995. Special software then enables processing the data recorded during testing and generates a report on the results obtained.

Within the scope of a research project focusing on the real-time positioning and automation of road construction vehicles, the LCPC conducted in 1996 a study in order to better ascertain the level of vertical precision that a GPS "real-time kinematic" (RTK) receiver is actually capable of attaining under work site use conditions.
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Geophysical test site
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-02-04 09:48:35
The purpose behind the 1997 opening of the "geophysical test site" at the Nantes Laboratory: to seek and develop methods for locating and identifying objects buried in the ground at shallow depths.

The site has been intended, first and foremost, for the application of methods to locate buried objects given the assumption of perfectly-controlled conditions: the soils are well identified and carefully compacted to ensure their stability over time; the objects (e.g. various pipes, boulders, voids, masonry work) are precisely positioned on a local geodesic coordinate system. This application serves to: discern the performance of both methods and equipment, carry out the necessary adjustments and fine-tuning, and then provide data for testing or calibrating numerical models.

The geophysical test site is also of great utility in conducting comparative tests on equipment or methods, on behalf of users of measurement instruments. Moreover, it provides an excellent support facility both for training in the implementation of geophysical methods and for the interpretation of measurement readings and images.
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Reference track for characterizing pavement surfaces

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Reference track for characterizing pavement surfaces
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-02-04 09:43:09
This track, in the shape of a bishop's staff, contains a raised curve at the end and a straight-line section with test boards. It provides the appropriate safety and reliability conditions for conducting a multitude of tests. Designed for the testing, calibration and certification of continuous measurement instruments used for identifying pavement surface characteristics, its range of application has been extended to the analysis and modeling of various types of vehicle performance, such as adherence and road noise propagation. Its scope of implementation will be further broadened over the next several years by becoming integrated into the project called "Testing means devoted to road safety and the smart road", for the purpose of building a new exceptional testing facility.]]>

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Pavement fatigue carousel
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-02-04 09:38:08
Accelerated Pavement Test facility for the sudy of full scale experimental pavements submitted to heavy traffic levels. This major facility became operational in 1984 at the LCPC Nantes Test Center. It makes it possible to reproduce in less than a week up to a full year's truck traffic load supported by a heavily- trafficked pavement, with load speeds capable of reaching 100 km/hr.

Tests may focus not only on new pavement structures, but on their maintenance and reinforcement techniques as well. The observations and measurements enable the monitoring under traffic of the fatigue and rutting behavior of materials, the evolution of pavement surface characteristics, the tire wear, etc.

The facility experimental site consists in three test rings, with its central motorization and four arms being movable from one ring to another within a week's time. One of the rings has been fitted with a waterproof concrete pit to ensure hydraulic insulation of the pavement subgrade with the external water table.]]>

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Pelindaba Nuclear Research Facility
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By: pookie123
@ 2009-02-02 18:56:29
This is Pelindaba Nuclear Research Facility in North West Province of South Africa.]]>

Pelindaba Nuclear Research Facility
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By: pookie123
@ 2009-02-02 18:56:29
This is Pelindaba Nuclear Research Facility in North West Province of South Africa.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/pelindaba-nuclear-research-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/pelindaba-nuclear-research-facility/ Mon, 02 Feb 2009 18:56:29 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/pelindaba-nuclear-research-facility/ -25.79836500 27.94067900 <![CDATA[Trace Life Sciences (surplus linear accelerator)]]>

Trace Life Sciences (surplus linear accelerator)

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Trace Life Sciences (surplus linear accelerator)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-01-15 10:33:38
A piece of equipment left over from the canceled Superconducting Super Collider, the linear accelerator or linac. A metal pipe 100 meters long, the linac consisted of four sections of speed-boosting drift tubes, a high-powered vacuum system to suck out all the air, and bundles of electromagnets to steer the protons.

Today the linac, now operated by Trace Life Sciences, runs 24 hours a day, emitting a continual beam of positive hydrogen ions, or protons, which are then accelerated to higher energies. A "kicker" magnet directs portions of the proton beam towards five different targets. These are made of elements such as thallium electroplated onto copper plates. Technicians later dissolve away the newly radioactive material and package it in vials, which are shipped by FedEx in lead-lined styrofoam containers.]]>

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Offshore helo pad at RAF Norwich
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-01-12 10:13:18
Used for R&D testing of helo pad (helideck) lighting.]]>

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Offshore helo pad at RAF Norwich
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By: kjfitz
@ 2009-01-12 10:13:18
Used for R&D testing of helo pad (helideck) lighting.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/offshore-helo-pad-at-raf-norwich/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/offshore-helo-pad-at-raf-norwich/ Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:13:18 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/offshore-helo-pad-at-raf-norwich/ 52.68168200 1.28575700 <![CDATA[Dock Landing Ship USS Shadwell (LSD-15) now a US Navy damage control test ship]]>

Dock Landing Ship USS Shadwell (LSD-15) now a US Navy damage control test ship

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Dock Landing Ship USS Shadwell (LSD-15) now a US Navy damage control test ship
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By: kjfitz
@ 2008-09-11 11:20:42
Took part in the invasions of Luzon and Leyte in WWII.

On November 10, 1988, the Shadwell, decommissioned and now known as the ex-USS Shadwell, was transferred to the Fire Research Detachment, Little Sands Island, Mobile Bay, Alabama. She is serving as a test and training platform in the development of fire models and other damage and control systems. Shadwell is on the stricken list and will eventually be disposed of upon the end of her use as a test and training platform.

Shadwell was grounded on Little Sand Island in Mobile Bay, Alabama, as a result of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The ship was removed from the position of grounding in 2006. A U.S. Navy Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) assisted with the project.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/dock-landing-ship-uss-shadwell-lsd-15-now-a-us-navy-damage-control-test-ship/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/dock-landing-ship-uss-shadwell-lsd-15-now-a-us-navy-damage-control-test-ship/ Thu, 11 Sep 2008 11:20:42 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/dock-landing-ship-uss-shadwell-lsd-15-now-a-us-navy-damage-control-test-ship/ 30.66020600 -88.02786900 <![CDATA[DHL Innovation Center]]>

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DHL Innovation Center
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By: neotrix
@ 2008-06-25 05:08:54
At the DHL Innovation Center, which is unique to the logistics industry, researchers and developers from all over the world can exchange their knowledge and design practical innovations for global use. The vision is to create synergetic networks for new ideas and accelerate their development from a prototype to Group-wide use.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/dhl-innovation-center/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/dhl-innovation-center/ Wed, 25 Jun 2008 05:08:54 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/dhl-innovation-center/ 50.81962400 7.10490400 <![CDATA[Packard Proving Grounds Test Track and Timing Tower]]>

Packard Proving Grounds Test Track and Timing Tower

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Packard Proving Grounds Test Track and Timing Tower
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By: Parabellum
@ 2008-06-16 16:51:51
A group of interested historians from many walks of life including members of Packard Clubs, the Classic Car Club, and the Antique Automobile Club joined together with the elected officials of Shelby Township and citizens to save a significant portion of the Proving Grounds. The Packard Motor Car Foundation offered to open negotiations with Ford. Extensive negotiations and re-negotiations led to Fords offer to gift the seven acres of land containing the grand entrance gates, the Lodge building, the Garage building, the elevated water storage tank, and the Chrysler Defense building to the Foundation for restoration and perpetual care. An additional seven acres has been set aside for later acquisition that currently contains the timing tower, a 458-foot section of the test track, and the relocated Lindbergh hangar.
]]>

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Burns & McDonnell Engineering Radar Cross Section (RCS) Facility

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Burns & McDonnell Engineering Radar Cross Section (RCS) Facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2008-05-24 14:53:12]]>

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Burns & McDonnell Engineering Radar Cross Section (RCS) Facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2008-05-24 14:53:12]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/burns-mcdonnell-engineering-radar-cross-section-rcs-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/burns-mcdonnell-engineering-radar-cross-section-rcs-facility/ Sat, 24 May 2008 14:53:12 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/burns-mcdonnell-engineering-radar-cross-section-rcs-facility/ 32.76617500 -97.45329300 <![CDATA[Propulsion and Structural Test Facility]]>

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Propulsion and Structural Test Facility
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By: mlc1us
@ 2008-05-06 12:35:14
Propulsion and Structural Test Facility is a facility of the George C. Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. It was the site where the first single stage rockets with multiple engines were tested.
This site was built in 1957 by the Army Ballistic Missile Agency and was the primary center responsible for the development of large vehicles and rocket propulsion systems. The Saturn Family of launch vehicles was developed here under the direction of Wernher von Braun. The Saturn V remains the most powerful launch vehicle ever brought to operational status, from a height, weight and payload standpoint.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/propulsion-and-structural-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/propulsion-and-structural-test-facility/ Tue, 06 May 2008 12:35:14 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/propulsion-and-structural-test-facility/ 34.62579100 -86.65794000 <![CDATA[Energy Products of Idaho (EPI) R&D Test Facility]]>

Energy Products of Idaho (EPI) R&D Test Facility

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Energy Products of Idaho (EPI) R&D Test Facility
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By: adrbr
@ 2008-05-06 08:03:52]]>

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Energy Products of Idaho (EPI) R&D Test Facility
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By: adrbr
@ 2008-05-06 08:03:52]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/energy-products-of-idaho-epi-r-d-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/energy-products-of-idaho-epi-r-d-test-facility/ Tue, 06 May 2008 08:03:52 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/energy-products-of-idaho-epi-r-d-test-facility/ 47.72464400 -116.83802100 <![CDATA[OTO Melara test facility]]>

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OTO Melara test facility
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By: giove
@ 2008-05-04 07:31:58
In La Spezia you can see 15 IFV Dardo near the test track]]>

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OTO Melara test facility
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By: giove
@ 2008-05-04 07:31:58
In La Spezia you can see 15 IFV Dardo near the test track]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/oto-melara-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/oto-melara-test-facility/ Sun, 04 May 2008 07:31:58 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/oto-melara-test-facility/ 44.11088300 9.86963000 <![CDATA[L-3 Integrated Systems' Multi-Sensor Test Range]]>

L-3 Integrated Systems' Multi-Sensor Test Range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-02-13 09:46:02
L-3 Integrated Systems' Multi-Sensor Test Range Provides:

* Access to over 600 radio frequencies approved by FCC for testing purposes
* FAA-approved airspace for flight testing (24x7x365)
* Limited environmental concerns (noise pollution, endangered species, high population density)
* The ability to land almost any type of aircraft on its 8,000 foot runway (with 1,000 foot overruns on each end)
* FAA-certified Air Traffic Control
* FAA-certified Fire/Crash departments
* Department of Defense-certified security
* Technical experience
* Replicates real world electronic environment including Threat Reproduction/Simulation
* End-to-end electronic system test
* RF signal sources (Broadband, COMINT / ELINT, High Power Impulse, Tracking or Mobile)
* Wide array of communication equipment (Narrowband, Wideband, Agile, Clear, Secure, LOS, BLOS, SATCOM)
]]>

Saturn 1B section at the Propulsion and Structural Test Facility

BEV

Saturn 1B section at the Propulsion and Structural Test Facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-02-07 12:46:30
This facility started life as the Saturn 1B test stand.

Built in 1957 by the Army Ballistic Missile Agency and transferred to NASA, this facility became the primary center responsible for the development of large vehicles and rocket propulsion systems. During the 1960s, under the direction of Dr. Werner von Braun, the Saturn Family of launch vehicles was developed here. Through its continual use and modification to meet the demands of new programs, this facility illustrates the primary mission assigned to the Army Ballistic Missile Agency and the Marshall Space Flight Center--the development of large launch vehicles and propulsion systems needed to support the American Space Program.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/saturn-1b-section-at-the-propulsion-and-structural-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/saturn-1b-section-at-the-propulsion-and-structural-test-facility/ Thu, 07 Feb 2008 12:46:30 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/saturn-1b-section-at-the-propulsion-and-structural-test-facility/ 34.62611800 -86.65725000 <![CDATA[Wind tunnel turbine beside DNW's cryogenic wind tunnel]]>

Wind tunnel turbine beside DNW's cryogenic wind tunnel

Wind tunnel turbine beside DNW's cryogenic wind tunnel
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-01-16 11:41:31
A closed circuit, continuous, low-speed wind tunnel with a closed wall test section]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wind-tunnel-turbine-beside-dnws-cryogenic-wind-tunnel/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wind-tunnel-turbine-beside-dnws-cryogenic-wind-tunnel/ Wed, 16 Jan 2008 11:41:31 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wind-tunnel-turbine-beside-dnws-cryogenic-wind-tunnel/ 50.85413400 7.12643500 <![CDATA[Sandia National Labs centrifuge]]>

BEV

Sandia National Labs centrifuge
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-07-20 15:01:09
1.6 million g-lb pound centrifuge.]]>

BEV

Sandia National Labs centrifuge
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-07-20 15:01:09
1.6 million g-lb pound centrifuge.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/sandia-national-labs-centrifuge/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/sandia-national-labs-centrifuge/ Fri, 20 Jul 2007 15:01:09 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/sandia-national-labs-centrifuge/ 34.99494700 -106.53781000 <![CDATA[FAA Boeing 737-222 test bed]]>

BEV

FAA Boeing 737-222 test bed
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-07-20 11:00:24
Used for testing at the FAA Aging Aircraft NDI Validation Center (FAA - AANC). The center was renamed in 1995 as the Airworthiness Assurance NDI Validation Center. Aircraft previously flown with Pan Am and United.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/faa-boeing-737-222-test-bed/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/faa-boeing-737-222-test-bed/ Fri, 20 Jul 2007 11:00:24 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/faa-boeing-737-222-test-bed/ 35.03947000 -106.62223900 <![CDATA[FAA Boing 747 test bed]]>

BEV

FAA Boing 747 test bed
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-07-20 10:53:57
Ex BA 747 being used by the FAA for non-destructive testing.]]>

BEV

FAA Boing 747 test bed
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-07-20 10:53:57
Ex BA 747 being used by the FAA for non-destructive testing.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/faa-boing-747-test-bed/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/faa-boing-747-test-bed/ Fri, 20 Jul 2007 10:53:57 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/faa-boing-747-test-bed/ 35.03889800 -106.62216300 <![CDATA[Plesetsk Cosmodrome]]>

Plesetsk Cosmodrome
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: jbottero
@ 2007-05-29 13:19:14
It was originally developed by the Soviet Union as a launch site for intercontinental ballistic missiles. Construction started in 1957 and it was declared operational for R-7 rockets in December 1959. The urban-type settlement of Plesetsk in Arkhangelsk Oblast had a railway station, essential for the transport of missile components. A new town for the support of the facility was named Mirny, Russian for "peaceful". By 1997, more than 1,500 launches to space had been made from the site, more than for any other launch facility, although the usage has declined significantly since the breakup of the Soviet Union.

Recently (May, 2007) a new ICBM, called the RS-24 has been tested and launched there, and is seen as eventually replacing the aging RS-18s and RS-20s that are the backbone of Russia's missile forces. Those missiles are known in the West as the SS-19 Stiletto and the SS-18 Satan.]]>

Fort Reno - Grazinglands research laboratory

BEV

Fort Reno - Grazinglands research laboratory
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-05-11 11:01:21
The mission of the Grazinglands Research Laboratory is develop and deliver improved technologies, management strategies, and strategic and tactical planning tools which help evaluate and manage economic and environmental risks, opportunities, and tradeoffs, for integrated crop, forage, and livestock systems under variable climate, energy and market conditions.

Fort Reno was established as a permanent post in July, 1875, near the Darlington Indian Agency on the old Cheyenne-Arapho reserve in Indian Territory. Named for General Jesse L. Reno, who died at the Battle of Antietam, it supported the U.S. Army following the Cheyenne uprising in 1874.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/fort-reno-grazinglands-research-laboratory/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/fort-reno-grazinglands-research-laboratory/ Fri, 11 May 2007 11:01:21 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/fort-reno-grazinglands-research-laboratory/ 35.56231000 -98.03642000 <![CDATA[Northrop's BAC 1-11 Avionics Testbed]]>

Northrop's BAC 1-11 Avionics Testbed
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-05-10 11:48:16
Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems is flight testing of the F-35’s APG-81 active electronically scanned array radar this BAC-111 test bed aircraft.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrops-bac-1-11-avionics-testbed/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrops-bac-1-11-avionics-testbed/ Thu, 10 May 2007 11:48:16 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrops-bac-1-11-avionics-testbed/ 39.18370000 -76.68384700 <![CDATA[J-PARC Japanese Proton Accelerator Research Complex]]>

J-PARC Japanese Proton Accelerator Research Complex
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-04-18 10:58:21]]>

J-PARC Japanese Proton Accelerator Research Complex
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-04-18 10:58:21]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/j-parc-japanese-proton-accelerator-research-complex/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/j-parc-japanese-proton-accelerator-research-complex/ Wed, 18 Apr 2007 10:58:21 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/j-parc-japanese-proton-accelerator-research-complex/ 36.44797200 140.60289900 <![CDATA[DOE Nuclear Device Assembly Area]]>

DOE Nuclear Device Assembly Area
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-04-07 14:16:38
Construction began on the Device Assembly Facility (DAF) in the mid-1980s during underground nuclear weapons testing. DAF's original purpose was to consolidate all nuclear explosive assembly functions, to provide safe structures for high explosive and nuclear explosive assembly operations, and to provide a state-of-the-art safeguards and security environment. Now that the United States is no longer conducting underground nuclear weapons tests, the DAF has other uses that include the building of subcritical experiment assemblies. It is one of the few facilities in the country that can accommodate these activities.

The DAF is a collection of 30 individual steel-reinforced buildings connected by a rectangular racetrack corridor. The entire complex, covered by compacted earth, spans an area of 100,000 square feet.]]>

White Sands launch complex
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-04-07 09:59:42
Officially called the Utah Launch Complex, the 3,650 acre site in the bare hills north of Moab, was established in 1961 as a launch point for test missiles bound for the Army's 4,000 square-mile White Sands Missile Range, in New Mexico. The site has been in "caretaker status" since the last launch in 1974, and has fallen into disrepair.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/white-sands-launch-complex/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/white-sands-launch-complex/ Sat, 07 Apr 2007 09:59:42 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/white-sands-launch-complex/ 38.94271300 -110.07626500 <![CDATA[Northrop Grumman low speed wind tunnel]]>

BEV

Northrop Grumman low speed wind tunnel
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-04-06 10:30:25
At Hawethorne Airport.]]>

BEV

Northrop Grumman low speed wind tunnel
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2007-04-06 10:30:25
At Hawethorne Airport.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrop-grumman-low-speed-wind-tunnel/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrop-grumman-low-speed-wind-tunnel/ Fri, 06 Apr 2007 10:30:25 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/northrop-grumman-low-speed-wind-tunnel/ 33.92146200 -118.33249600 <![CDATA[European Synchrotron Radiation Facility]]>

BEV

European Synchrotron Radiation Facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: mlc1us
@ 2007-03-30 10:43:16]]>

BEV

European Synchrotron Radiation Facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: mlc1us
@ 2007-03-30 10:43:16]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/european-synchrotron-radiation-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/european-synchrotron-radiation-facility/ Fri, 30 Mar 2007 10:43:16 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/european-synchrotron-radiation-facility/ 45.20866000 5.68980800 <![CDATA[Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Vehicle Research Center]]>

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Vehicle Research Center
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: mlc1us
@ 2007-01-22 20:44:53
Vehicle tests, including crash tests, are conducted here.]]>

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Vehicle Research Center
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: mlc1us
@ 2007-01-22 20:44:53
Vehicle tests, including crash tests, are conducted here.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/insurance-institute-for-highway-safetys-vehicle-research-center/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/insurance-institute-for-highway-safetys-vehicle-research-center/ Mon, 22 Jan 2007 20:44:53 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/insurance-institute-for-highway-safetys-vehicle-research-center/ 38.25601800 -78.37610000 <![CDATA[Blue Whale Skeleton]]>

Blue Whale Skeleton
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: mikeb9991
@ 2007-01-12 20:15:12
Blue whale skeleton, outside the Long Marine Laboratory at the University of California, Santa Cruz]]>

Blue Whale Skeleton
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: mikeb9991
@ 2007-01-12 20:15:12
Blue whale skeleton, outside the Long Marine Laboratory at the University of California, Santa Cruz]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/blue-whale-skeleton/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/blue-whale-skeleton/ Fri, 12 Jan 2007 20:15:12 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/blue-whale-skeleton/ 36.94929800 -122.06531000 <![CDATA[Yahoo! Research Silicon Valley]]>

BEV

Yahoo! Research Silicon Valley
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: mlc1us
@ 2007-01-09 12:32:53]]>

BEV

Yahoo! Research Silicon Valley
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: mlc1us
@ 2007-01-09 12:32:53]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/yahoo-research-silicon-valley/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/yahoo-research-silicon-valley/ Tue, 09 Jan 2007 12:32:53 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/yahoo-research-silicon-valley/ 37.38895200 -121.97985700 <![CDATA[NASA KC-135A "Weightless Wonder V"]]>

BEV

NASA KC-135A "Weightless Wonder V"
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-12-22 11:06:59
Developed from the Model 367-80 airliner prototype the KC-135 and 707 are two of Boeing’s most famous products. The KC-135 was designed based on an Air Force requirement for a high speed jet tanker capable of refueling the then latest generation of jet fighters and bombers. The KC-97s then in use required the jets to fly at very low speeds while the tanker struggled to fly as fast as possible. The KC-135 allowed both the tanker and the receiver aircraft to fly comfortably in the middle of their flight envelopes rather than at the edges. The first and most numerous version of the Stratotanker is the KC-135A. More than 700 KC-135As were built between 1956 and 1965. The KC-135 has proven itself to be a very versatile aircraft with many being modified for special test programs, as airborne command posts, and as VIP transports. Modernized KC-135As remain the primary tanker aircraft for the U.S. Air Force nearly 50 years after their introduction to service.]]>

BEV

ESTEC (European Space Agency test center)

ESTEC (European Space Agency test center)
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: romulusnr
@ 2006-12-06 01:33:37
The European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC), the largest site and the technical heart of ESA—the incubator of the European space effort—is in Noordwijk, in the Netherlands. Most ESA projects are born here, and this is where they are guided through the various phases of development. More than 2000 specialists work here on dozens of space projects. ]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/estec-european-space-agency-test-center/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/estec-european-space-agency-test-center/ Wed, 06 Dec 2006 01:33:37 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/estec-european-space-agency-test-center/ 52.21762500 4.42165400 <![CDATA[Helicopter blade test stand]]>

BEV

Helicopter blade test stand
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: bobpiggy
@ 2006-12-02 14:41:45
The repaired blades go in the middle of the cage, on a test rotor head, then they are run up to speed and tested. They added the cage a couple of years ago after a blade desintigrated and pieces were found all over the base.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/helicopter-blade-test-stand/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/helicopter-blade-test-stand/ Sat, 02 Dec 2006 14:41:45 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/helicopter-blade-test-stand/ 27.69517900 -97.27411500 <![CDATA[Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility (CSBF)]]>

Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility (CSBF)

Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility (CSBF)
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: bonjbrown2
@ 2006-11-26 19:18:47

The Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility (CSBF), located in Palestine, Texas, is a NASA facility managed by the Physical Science Lab of New Mexico State University. The contract to manage the facility is administered by the Balloon Program Office at Wallops Flight Facility of Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC).

Provides the services of launching large (400 ft. dia), unmanned, high altitude (120,000 ft.), research balloons; tracking, and recovering the scientific experiments suspended beneath them, for NASA centers and universities from all over the world. ]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/columbia-scientific-balloon-facility-csbf/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/columbia-scientific-balloon-facility-csbf/ Sun, 26 Nov 2006 19:18:47 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/columbia-scientific-balloon-facility-csbf/ 31.78086100 -95.71126000 <![CDATA[Former Aerojet Solid Rocket Booster plant]]>

Former Aerojet Solid Rocket Booster plant

Former Aerojet Solid Rocket Booster plant
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: robsv
@ 2006-11-17 20:24:10
Former Aerojet General Solid Rocket Booster plant. It was built in 1962, and developed and tested solid rocket boosters. It was mothballed by the 80's, and sold in 1992. The land is now owned by the South Florida Water Management District.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/former-aerojet-solid-rocket-booster-plant/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/former-aerojet-solid-rocket-booster-plant/ Fri, 17 Nov 2006 20:24:10 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/former-aerojet-solid-rocket-booster-plant/ 25.36256400 -80.56210000 <![CDATA[Censored]]>

Censored
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-11-06 10:37:37
Censored... but tours are offered to tourists. Go figure.

The Plum Island Animal Disease Center is a United States federal research facility dedicated to the study of animal diseases, particularly foreign animal disease threats. Much of the government work related to foot-and-mouth disease and mad cow disease was conducted at Plum Island.

Research on a large variety of animal diseases is done here, including animal-testing and genetic manipulation of diseases. Although it has officially been a facility of the Department of Agriculture until its inclusion under the Department of Homeland Security, it has been used for decades for research on animal-borne diseases that can be transferred to humans. The entire research facility is a Biosafety Level 4 laboratory.

The center is located on Plum Island, off the northeast coast of Long Island in New York state. This site was chosen as a bio-threat research center partly for its prevailing off-land winds and the fact that it was already federal property. It is strictly off limits to civilians, and personnel and supplies are transported to and from the island by ferries.

In 2002, the Plum Island Animal Disease Center was transferred from the United States Department of Agriculture to the United States Department of Homeland Security.]]>

Haslar Marine Technology Park Ship Model Basins

BEV

Haslar Marine Technology Park Ship Model Basins
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-10-24 10:46:45
(i.e. towing tanks)

A towing tank: This is a basin, several metres wide and hundreds of metres long, equipped with a towing carriage that runs on two rails on either side. The towing carriage can either tow the model or follow the self-propelled model, and is equipped with computers and devices to register or control, respectively, variables such as speed, propeller thrust and torque, rudder angle etc. The towing tank serves for resistance and propulsion tests with towed and self-propelled ship models to determine how much power the engine will have to provide to achieve the speed laid down in the contract between shipyard and ship owner. The towing tank also serves to determine the manoeuvring behaviour in model scale. For this, the self-propelled model is exposed to a series of zig-zag manoeuvres at different rudder angle amplitudes. Post-processing of the test data by means of system identification results in a numerical model to simulate any other manoeuvre like Dieudonné spiral test or turning circles. Additionally, a towing tank can be equipped with a PMM (planar motion mechanism) or a CPMC (computerized planar motion carriage) to measure the hydrodynamic forces and moments on ships or submerged objects under the influence of oblique inflow and enforced motions. The towing tank can also be equipped with a wave generator to carry out seakeeping tests, either by simulating natural (irregular) waves or by exposing the model to a wave packet that yields a set of statistics known as response amplitude operators (acronym RAO), that determine the ship's likely real-life sea-going behaviour when operating in seas with varying wave amplitudes and frequencies (these parameters being known as sea states). Modern seakeeping test facilities can determine these RAO statistics, with the aid of appropriate computer hardware and software, in a single test.]]>

BEV

Aircrew Ejection Seat Testing
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-10-20 09:56:46]]>

Aircrew Ejection Seat Testing
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-10-20 09:56:46]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/aircrew-ejection-seat-testing/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/aircrew-ejection-seat-testing/ Fri, 20 Oct 2006 09:56:46 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/aircrew-ejection-seat-testing/ 35.66595200 -117.52324600 <![CDATA[Supersonic Rocket Sled]]>

Supersonic Rocket Sled
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-10-20 09:54:03
Sled Tracks support a wide variety of cost effective ground testing, including ejection, environmental, weapon-release, and live ordnance testing. The Supersonic Naval Ordnance Research Track (SNORT) provides testing of weapons and components and parachute systems at operational speeds.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/supersonic-rocket-sled/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/supersonic-rocket-sled/ Fri, 20 Oct 2006 09:54:03 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/supersonic-rocket-sled/ 35.67662900 -117.73947000 <![CDATA[Rocket engine test stand]]>

Rocket engine test stand
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-10-20 09:37:12
At China Lake Navals Weapons Station. Others to the east and south.]]>

Rocket engine test stand
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-10-20 09:37:12
At China Lake Navals Weapons Station. Others to the east and south.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/rocket-engine-test-stand/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/rocket-engine-test-stand/ Fri, 20 Oct 2006 09:37:12 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/rocket-engine-test-stand/ 35.70447800 -117.51235700 <![CDATA[Onera Modane-Avrieux Center wind tunnels]]>

Onera Modane-Avrieux Center wind tunnels

Onera Modane-Avrieux Center wind tunnels
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-10-15 01:07:46
Created just after the Second World War at Avrieux near Modane in Savoy, this Center houses a set of wind tunnels for simulating flows ranging from subsonic to hypersonic velocities. It has the particular feature of receiving its energy essentially in hydraulic form through a forced pipe 850 m high coming from the Aussois dams (reserve of 12 millions m3) and with a maximum flow rate of 15 m3/s. The Center includes a set of wind tunnels simulating flows from subsonic to hypersonic velocities.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/onera-modane-avrieux-center-wind-tunnels/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/onera-modane-avrieux-center-wind-tunnels/ Sun, 15 Oct 2006 01:07:46 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/onera-modane-avrieux-center-wind-tunnels/ 45.21354800 6.71186300 <![CDATA[Hanford Nuclear Waste Burial Area]]>

Hanford Nuclear Waste Burial Area
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: jbottero
@ 2006-10-13 20:28:17
This is part of Hanford's "200 Area" where nuclear waste disposal takes place.]]>

Hanford Nuclear Waste Burial Area
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: jbottero
@ 2006-10-13 20:28:17
This is part of Hanford's "200 Area" where nuclear waste disposal takes place.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/hanford-nuclear-waste-burial-area/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/hanford-nuclear-waste-burial-area/ Fri, 13 Oct 2006 20:28:17 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/hanford-nuclear-waste-burial-area/ 46.54652400 -119.52974800 <![CDATA[Large Blast / Thermal Simulator (LB/TS)]]>

Large Blast / Thermal Simulator (LB/TS)
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-10-13 18:44:10
The Large Blast Thermal Simulator (LB/TS) is designed to simulate the thermal pulse and air blast wave from a nuclear detonation. Customers with nuclear survivability requirements can test full scale vehicles and systems year round inside or outside the tunnel.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/large-blast-thermal-simulator-lb-ts/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/large-blast-thermal-simulator-lb-ts/ Fri, 13 Oct 2006 18:44:10 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/large-blast-thermal-simulator-lb-ts/ 33.79187700 -106.67814700 <![CDATA[Meppen Military Technical Centre]]>

Meppen Military Technical Centre
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-09-30 18:09:33
Facility for testing weapons for the grman Army.]]>

Meppen Military Technical Centre
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-09-30 18:09:33
Facility for testing weapons for the grman Army.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/meppen-military-technical-centre/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/meppen-military-technical-centre/ Sat, 30 Sep 2006 18:09:33 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/meppen-military-technical-centre/ 52.72225800 7.31895400 <![CDATA[Unusual Chinese test facility in the desert]]>

Unusual Chinese test facility in the desert

Unusual Chinese test facility in the desert
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-09-30 17:54:58
Perhaps for some form of EMP testing. There looks to be a very large power substation just to the NE with connections to this site.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/unusual-chinese-test-facility-in-the-desert/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/unusual-chinese-test-facility-in-the-desert/ Sat, 30 Sep 2006 17:54:58 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/unusual-chinese-test-facility-in-the-desert/ 39.15712000 88.63042100 <![CDATA[Boeing 720-051B with five engines]]>

Boeing 720-051B with five engines
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-09-15 16:13:18
Allied Signal modified a 720-051B to test the TFE731-40 turbofan engine.

Allied Signal's TFE731-40 Testbed wears construction number 18384. It first flew on September 15, 1961. TWA leased it as N794TW beginning on August 27, 1961. Northwest leased it as N733US on October 26, 1962 and then bought it on July 1, 1968. Maersk Air registered it as OY-APZ in January 1973 and leased it to Nigeria Airways in December 1974. TEA leased it as OO-TYA on November 6, 1979 and returned it to Maersk on January 19, 1980. Conair acquired it on February 16, 1981.

Allied Signal registered it as N720GT on November 24, 1987 and mounted an engine test pylon on the right side of the forward fuselage. ]]>

BEV

U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-09-13 16:24:39
The U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program (NMMP) is a program administered by the U.S. Navy which studies the military use of marine mammals — principally Bottlenose Dolphins and California Sea Lions — and trains animals to perform tasks such as ship and harbour protection, mine detection and clearance, and equipment recovery. The program is based in San Diego, California, where animals are housed and trained on an ongoing basis. NMMP animal teams have been deployed for use in combat zones, such as during the Vietnam War and the Iraq War.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/u-s-navy-marine-mammal-program/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/u-s-navy-marine-mammal-program/ Wed, 13 Sep 2006 16:24:39 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/u-s-navy-marine-mammal-program/ 32.70487700 -117.23563700 <![CDATA[Japan's Aerospace Research Center (ARC)]]>

Japan's Aerospace Research Center (ARC)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-07-10 16:42:37
The Aerospace Research Center (ARC), where JAXA’s Institute of Space Technology and Aeronautics is located, is at the cutting edge of aerospace research and technological development. Its various large-scale test facility installations are widely used--not only by JAXA but also by other institutions--for research and development.

The ARC is especially proud of its wind-tunnel test facility, and of its super-computer, both of which are the largest in Japan. The wind tunnel creates artificial air flow to study aerodynamic characteristics of models of aircraft and spacecraft, monitoring a range of speeds from low to hypersonic. At the Information Technology Center, the super-computer, using numerical simulations, designs and analyzes supersonic-speed experiment devices and spacecraft. It is also developing programs to solve body shake and engine heat phenomenon that affect spacecraft.
There is also a branch of the ARC near Chofu Airfield (Tokyo), which is used to access Oshima and Niijima. This facility uses experimental aircraft and flight simulators to test technology and to develop future aircraft designs.]]>

Japanese KEK particle accelerators
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-07-10 16:04:35]]>

Japanese KEK particle accelerators
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-07-10 16:04:35]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/japanese-kek-particle-accelerators/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/japanese-kek-particle-accelerators/ Mon, 10 Jul 2006 16:04:35 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/japanese-kek-particle-accelerators/ 36.15367700 140.07366700 <![CDATA[Kakuda Space Center (KSPC)]]>

Kakuda Space Center (KSPC)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-07-10 15:51:03
The Kakuda Space Center (KSPC) leads research and development in rocket engines, which are the hearts of the vehicles that carry satellites into outer space. Since the Kakuda Space Propulsion Laboratory (the former National Aerospace Laboratory of Japan) merged with the Kakuda Propulsion Center (the former National Space Development Agency), the KSPC has played an important role in improving rocket engines.

The main mission of the KSPC is the development and testing of liquid-fuel rocket engines to be installed in rockets such as the H-IIA. Construction of the High Altitude Test Stand, for test firing in a quasi-space environment, is currently in progress. The KSPC is also developing reusable rocket engines for reusable space-transportation systems of the future, and an air-breathing combined-cycle engine which will be used during atmospheric flights. The research is being conducted by simulation in the High Enthalpy Shock Tunnel.]]>

Tanegashima Space Center (TNSC) rocket engine test facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-07-10 11:55:01]]>

Tanegashima Space Center (TNSC) rocket engine test facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-07-10 11:55:01]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tanegashima-space-center-tnsc-rocket-engine-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tanegashima-space-center-tnsc-rocket-engine-test-facility/ Mon, 10 Jul 2006 11:55:01 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tanegashima-space-center-tnsc-rocket-engine-test-facility/ 30.37998400 130.96123700 <![CDATA[Model for Topside Antenna]]>

BEV

Model for Topside Antenna
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-07-07 18:44:38]]>

BEV

Model for Topside Antenna
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2006-07-07 18:44:38]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/model-for-topside-antenna/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/model-for-topside-antenna/ Fri, 07 Jul 2006 18:44:38 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/model-for-topside-antenna/ 32.69801600 -117.24770800 <![CDATA[Transducer Evaluation Center (TRANSDEC)]]>

BEV

Transducer Evaluation Center (TRANSDEC)
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-07-07 18:41:07
The Transducer Evaluation Center is a controlled environment, low ambient noise, and conveniently accessible transducer calibration and underwater acoustic test facility. It consists of a large, man-made anechoic pool, 300 ft by 200 ft by 38 ft deep containing 6 million gallons of chemically treated fresh water, continuously circulated to maintain isothermal conditions.

TRANSDEC is capable of performing a wide variety of measurements for a complete transducer evaluation including but not limited to:

* Transmitting voltage, current and power response
* Receiving sensitivity
* Directivity patterns
* Complex impedance and admittance
* Noise measurements and harmonic distortion
* Target strength measurements
* Phase measurements between two hydrophones or array elements
* Insertion loss of sonar windows

The low ambient noise level in the TRANSDEC pool is ideal for investigating the radiated noise of mechanical devices such as underwater motors, pumps and low thrust propulsion systems. Although not filtered, the water clarity in the pool is excellent for photographic work and optical experiments.]]>

BEV

North Korean No-Dong Missile Engine Test Stand

North Korean No-Dong Missile Engine Test Stand
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By: Pdunn
@ 2006-06-16 09:15:28]]>

North Korean No-Dong Missile Engine Test Stand
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By: Pdunn
@ 2006-06-16 09:15:28]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/north-korean-no-dong-missile-engine-test-stand/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/north-korean-no-dong-missile-engine-test-stand/ Fri, 16 Jun 2006 09:15:28 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/north-korean-no-dong-missile-engine-test-stand/ 40.85242900 129.68030000 <![CDATA[Island where H-bomb was tested]]>

Island where H-bomb was tested
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By: AlejoHausner
@ 2006-06-12 23:33:13
Elugelab island in the Eniwetok atoll in the US Marshall islands, where the first hydrogen bomb (code name Mike) was detonated on 31 Oct 1952. A declassified document at http://worf.eh.doe.gov/data/ihp1d/126828e.pdf shows where island used to be.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/island-where-h-bomb-was-tested/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/island-where-h-bomb-was-tested/ Mon, 12 Jun 2006 23:33:13 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/island-where-h-bomb-was-tested/ 11.68000000 162.18000000 <![CDATA[WWII ballistic testing range]]>

WWII ballistic testing range
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-06-03 02:28:52
During the Second World War experimental work concentrated on bomb ballistics and firing trials.

Between 1938 and 1959 a majority of the firing trials were concentrated in this area. The firing trials were mainly concerned with determining the vulnerability of aircraft and aircraft components to attack by various projectiles. Whole aircraft or individual parts such as fuel tanks, oxygen tanks or running engines were subjected to carefully controlled and recorded simulations of attack.

A principal area of work involved improving the lethality of Allied ammunition and improving the protection of Allied aircraft against German ammunition. A wide range of aircraft including four- engine bombers would be lined up here undergoing trials.

To determine vulnerability the aircraft were shot at with .303 rifles from all angles, a single shot at a time, with each bullet hole marked and recorded after every shot. After the war work continued on machine gun ammunition, rockets and other projectiles, on the vulnerability of aircraft to attack and the development of techniques to record projectiles in flight and duplicate various effects experimentally.

This work continued until the early 1960s and was latterly very largely concerned with the aerodynamics and ballistics of the first nuclear weapons. ]]>

BEV

Radar Cross Section Facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-05-20 23:49:09
What appears to be pole (presumably used for mounting the vehicle shape being tested) is located on the centerline of the strip at the southeastern end.

A small complex of buildings is located at the northwest end of the strip (where the entrance road is located), while a larger complex of buildings is located at the southeastern end of the strip.

By comparing the layout of this site with radar cross section testing ranges in Southern CA (particularly the Helendale Range), the physical similarities are obvious, leading to the conclusion that the Wewahotee site is most likely some kind of radar cross section test range.

It most likely is part of the facilities of Lockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control, which employs several thousand people at facilities just a few miles to the northwest.

It is not known if the facility is still actively used.]]>

BEV

Range Control unit of South Uist missile test range

Range Control unit of South Uist missile test range
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By: Hinkkanen
@ 2006-04-28 15:37:12
Range Control unit of South Uist missile test range on top of the hill of Ruabhal.[www.secret-bases.co.uk]]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/range-control-unit-of-south-uist-missile-test-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/range-control-unit-of-south-uist-missile-test-range/ Fri, 28 Apr 2006 15:37:12 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/range-control-unit-of-south-uist-missile-test-range/ 57.34115500 -7.35492800 <![CDATA[South Uist missile testing range]]>

South Uist missile testing range
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By: Hinkkanen
@ 2006-04-28 15:33:25
The Corporal missile was tested from 1959 to 1963, before giving way to Sergeant and Lance tactical nuclear missiles. The 'rocket range' as it is known locally has also been used to test high altitude research rockets, Skua (rocket) and Petrel (rocket), which despite their purportedly scientific remit, were operated by the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment in Aldermaston. The range is still owned by the MoD operated by QinetiQ as testing facility for missile systems such as the surface-to-air Rapier missile and Unmanned Air Vehicles.
[www.secret-bases.co.uk]]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/south-uist-missile-testing-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/south-uist-missile-testing-range/ Fri, 28 Apr 2006 15:33:25 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/south-uist-missile-testing-range/ 57.35845600 -7.38706100 <![CDATA[Secret Etcheron Valley Junction Ranch Radio Cross Section Range]]>

Secret Etcheron Valley Junction Ranch Radio Cross Section Range
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-04-22 01:52:03
In a remote area of the China Lake Naval Weapons Range.

The Junction Ranch RCS Range is actually comprised of two ranges, located adjacent to each other. One is a typical horizontal range, but the other is a "look-down" range with a water filled pond. This look-down range, also known as the "Wet Site", simulates a sea surface environment for RCS testing.

The horizontal RCS facility (in the thumbnail) has two pylon locations, one 700' downrange, and one 4,000' downrange. This provides for target positioning for both low and high frequency radars. The pylon is of a low RCS design, 40' in height, and capable of supporting 6,000 pounds. Surprisingly, the surface of the range is compacted soil, rather than the more typical asphalt. The range managers have found this economical design to work quite well, requiring only occasional grading and treatment with soil sterilants.

The Wet Site is centered around a shallow salt water pond 78' wide and 100' long. It contains a 30' diameter hydraulic turntable that may be raised or lowered to provide lookdown angles from 5 to 30 degrees. The radar is located at a slant distance of 17,000 feet. It seems as if this facility, at least in an initial phase, was used in the model testing of the Skunk Works "Sea Shadow" stealth ship.]]>

National Radio Cross Section (RCS) Test Facility

National Radio Cross Section (RCS) Test Facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-04-21 02:41:00
In White Sands Missile Test Range. Looks like a radome on the NW end and a mount very similar to this one at the SE end. Same shape and position of the underground entrance.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/national-radio-cross-section-rcs-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/national-radio-cross-section-rcs-test-facility/ Fri, 21 Apr 2006 02:41:00 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/national-radio-cross-section-rcs-test-facility/ 33.19251553 -106.58244610 <![CDATA[Divine Strake Testing Site]]>

Divine Strake Testing Site
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By: winsettz
@ 2006-04-09 20:03:40
This is where the DIVINE STRAKE test will take place: 760 tons of ANFO explosive.]]>

Divine Strake Testing Site
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By: winsettz
@ 2006-04-09 20:03:40
This is where the DIVINE STRAKE test will take place: 760 tons of ANFO explosive.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/divine-strake-testing-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/divine-strake-testing-site/ Sun, 09 Apr 2006 20:03:40 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/divine-strake-testing-site/ 37.02216300 -116.18171300 <![CDATA[Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Test Rig]]>

Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Test Rig

BEV

Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Test Rig
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By: Parabellum
@ 2006-04-07 21:27:03
Another Lockheed front-half-only-rooftop-test-rig.]]>

BEV

Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Test Rig
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By: Parabellum
@ 2006-04-07 21:27:03
Another Lockheed front-half-only-rooftop-test-rig.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/lockheed-martin-f-35-joint-strike-fighter-test-rig/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/lockheed-martin-f-35-joint-strike-fighter-test-rig/ Fri, 07 Apr 2006 21:27:03 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/lockheed-martin-f-35-joint-strike-fighter-test-rig/ 32.78372800 -97.44638100 <![CDATA[F/A-22 Flying Test Bed (FTB)]]>

BEV

F/A-22 Flying Test Bed (FTB)
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By: Parabellum
@ 2006-03-27 14:14:30
Pictures

It's a modified Boeing 767 with a F/A-22 radar in its nose and a canard that simulates the positioning of sensors on an F/A-22.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/f-a-22-flying-test-bed-ftb/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/f-a-22-flying-test-bed-ftb/ Mon, 27 Mar 2006 14:14:30 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/f-a-22-flying-test-bed-ftb/ 47.51569200 -122.29324400 <![CDATA[ATK Thiokol Propulsion Test Facility]]>

ATK Thiokol Propulsion Test Facility
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By: tully
@ 2006-03-20 14:18:43
This is the ATK Thiokol Propulsion facility near Promontory, Utah where they test items such as NASA's solid fuel booster rockets. Check out the blast area to the right!

Photos of what happens here:

http://returntoflight.org/multimedia/photos190a_6.html

http://returntoflight.org/multimedia/photos190a_7.html

http://returntoflight.org/multimedia/photos190a_8.html

This is the business end of the 'kjfitz' post:

http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/6960/

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/atk-thiokol-propulsion-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/atk-thiokol-propulsion-test-facility/ Mon, 20 Mar 2006 14:18:43 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/atk-thiokol-propulsion-test-facility/ 41.65090200 -112.39438500 <![CDATA[Missile test range in Sardinia]]>

Missile test range in Sardinia
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By: spitfirexyzr
@ 2006-03-15 04:12:29]]>

Missile test range in Sardinia
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By: spitfirexyzr
@ 2006-03-15 04:12:29]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/missile-test-range-in-sardinia/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/missile-test-range-in-sardinia/ Wed, 15 Mar 2006 04:12:29 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/missile-test-range-in-sardinia/ 39.53542400 9.63325000 <![CDATA[EMP Testing Facility]]>

EMP Testing Facility
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By: tk42one
@ 2006-02-28 09:07:10
Electro-Magnetic Pulse Testing Facility - Items (such as tanks) are suspended from the wodden arch and tested against EMP.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/emp-testing-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/emp-testing-facility/ Tue, 28 Feb 2006 09:07:10 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/emp-testing-facility/ 31.58024500 -110.29671500 <![CDATA[USS Arthur W. Radford (DD-968) - Test Platform]]>

USS Arthur W. Radford (DD-968) - Test Platform

USS Arthur W. Radford (DD-968) - Test Platform
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-02-23 13:23:19
Radford to the left and USS Conolly (DD-979) to the right.

The Norfolk-based Spruance-class destroyer USS Arthur W. Radford (DD 968) decommissioned on March 18, 2003 at Naval Station Norfolk. The ship will now serve as the test platform for the U.S. Navy’s future destroyer, DD(X).

This will not be the first time Radford has been used as a test platform. The ship used the newest and most robust cryptologic system during its last deployment. Although many ships now use this new cryptology system, Radford was the first to deploy with it.

Radford also introduced the Advanced Enclosed Mast System (AEM/S) to the Fleet in 1998. The ship’s unique, enclosed superstructure, which literally stands out among the masts of other ships, protects major antennas and other sensitive equipment. It also reduces maintenance and significantly reduces radar signature.

The ship will now be towed to Philadelphia where the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Inactive Ships Maintenance Office (NISMO) will oversee its inactivation. Eventually, the ship will be towed to Pascagoula, Miss. where Northrop Grumman Ship Systems will equip it with three DD(X) Engineering Development Models, including the Integrated Power System (IPS), the Composite Deckhouse, and the Dual Band Radar. The IPS will allow rapid reconfiguration of power, reduced acoustic noise, and greater flexibility in ship design, according to David Caskey, a NAVSEA spokesperson.

The conversion, scheduled to begin in the fall of 2004, will take approximately one year.

Once Radford is converted, at-sea testing will begin in the Gulf of Mexico and Virginia Capes Operating Areas, including Lambert’s Point Range in Norfolk, and Wallops Island Range near the eastern Virginia shore. The Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center Range in the Bahamas will also be used for the ship’s testing. ]]>

International Rose Test Garden
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By: jbottero
@ 2006-01-31 11:31:45
Portland is home to one of the world's most famous rose gardens, the International Rose Test Garden. Each year hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world visit this garden. This popular tourist site with spectacular views and more than 8,000 roses, is one of Portland's most notable signature landmarks. ]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/international-rose-test-garden/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/international-rose-test-garden/ Tue, 31 Jan 2006 11:31:45 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/international-rose-test-garden/ 45.51936100 -122.70490400 <![CDATA[Outdoor Test Stand at NASA Ames]]>

Outdoor Test Stand at NASA Ames
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-01-26 12:35:36
There is a Huey hellicopter next to it. I assume they have been or are about ti hoist it up for some test.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/outdoor-test-stand-at-nasa-ames/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/outdoor-test-stand-at-nasa-ames/ Thu, 26 Jan 2006 12:35:36 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/outdoor-test-stand-at-nasa-ames/ 37.42414500 -122.06092700 <![CDATA[VTOL Test Pad at NASA Ames]]>

VTOL Test Pad at NASA Ames
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-01-26 12:30:04
Presumably where early VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) tests were conducted. (XV-3)

Also the Convair Pogo was tested at Ames.

I saw one of the Pogos in storage at the old Silver Springs facility of the Smithsonian bfore they closed it. I asume it is at the new Smithsonian facility at Dulles now.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/vtol-test-pad-at-nasa-ames/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/vtol-test-pad-at-nasa-ames/ Thu, 26 Jan 2006 12:30:04 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/vtol-test-pad-at-nasa-ames/ 37.42227900 -122.05694700 <![CDATA[Red stain from fire retardent dropped while testing 747 Supertanker]]>

Red stain from fire retardent dropped while testing 747 Supertanker

Red stain from fire retardent dropped while testing 747 Supertanker
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-01-19 22:28:15
Here is a video of the actual drop.

Compared to the existing aerial firefighting fleet, the Evergreen Supertanker will offer at least seven times more drop capability over today’s largest airtanker. This large gallonage increase gives the Supertanker an opportunity to save a substantial amount of time and money fighting fire.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/red-stain-from-fire-retardent-dropped-while-testing-747-supertanker/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/red-stain-from-fire-retardent-dropped-while-testing-747-supertanker/ Thu, 19 Jan 2006 22:28:15 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/red-stain-from-fire-retardent-dropped-while-testing-747-supertanker/ 32.51435800 -111.31130900 <![CDATA[Giant Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser (COIL) Test Facility in 747 fuselage]]>

Giant Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser (COIL) Test Facility in 747 fuselage
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-01-13 00:28:40
Picture

The ABL weapon system consists of a high-energy, chemical oxygen iodine laser (COIL) mounted on a modified 747-400F (freighter) aircraft to shoot down theater ballistic missiles in their boost phase.

All of the COIL laser modules and 77 tonnes of flight hardware have been installed into the test plane - an old 747-200 fuselage that was rescued from an aircraft junkyard - at the 18 000 ft2 System Integration Laboratory (SIL) at Edwards Air Force Base in California. All of the ground-based laser tests will take place at the specially designed $35 m facilities. After tests inside the SIL are complete, the COIL will be dismantled and reassembled inside the ABL.

Next to the SIL is the ground pressure recovery assembly (GPRA) - a giant airtight sphere that simulates the reduced air pressure at 38 000 ft for tests that will mimic the plane's real-life operating conditions. ]]>

B-58A (Snoopy) on Edwards AFB photo test range
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-01-10 11:24:44
The B-58A (serial number 55-0665 and nicknamed Snoopy) was the sixth B-58 to be built . It was used, at one time, to test radar systems for the GAR-9/AIM-47 missile for the F-108 Rapier and later the YF-12A.
This B-58 first flew September 28, 1957 and was delivered to the USAF on February 15, 1958.

On October 17, 1958, Convair received a contract from Hughes and the USAF to manufacture two special pods for GAR-9 missile launch tests and to modify one B-58 for AN/ASG-18 test-bed work. Snoopy was selected for the modifications. In February 1959, it began modifications to begin life as a test bed.

In order to fit the rather large AN/ASG-18 fire control system into the B-58A, nearly seven feet had to be added to the overall length of the aircraft (that explains why it looks a little odd). Internal changes had to be made in the second crew station and elsewhere to accommodate the associated instrumentation and control equipment.

The flight testing of the radar began in early 1960, but the first GAR-9 launch did not take place until May 25, 1962. By late 1963, the YF-12A flight test program was sufficiently well advanced that it was concluded that it was now possible for future GAR-9 missile launches to take place from the YF-12A itself. The last B-58 GAR-9 launches took place in February of 1964.

After the completion of the ASG-18/GAR-9 test program, the special modifications were removed from Snoopy. However the long nose was retained. Snoopy was eventually placed out in the open on the photo test range at Edwards AFB. (note the photo resolution targets just to the south) [check-six.com]]]>

Barrier Test Facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2006-01-10 11:14:56
The facility (currently mothballed) consists of barrier pits on both sides of the South Base runway approximately 100 by 50 feet sunk into the ground approximately 15 feet. The pits are connected underground by a walk-through tunnel under the runway. The floors of the pits are equipped with bolt-down rails to facilitate a wide variety of barrier system configurations.
The walls of the pits are also equipped with bolting provisions to accommodate any sheaves necessary for the routing of the barrier tapes. The roof of each pit is at ground level and can be rolled back to accommodate installation and removal of large pieces of equipment. Adjacent to the runway and next to the southern pit is a reinforced barrier test control booth to provide safe control of testing.
Also adjacent to the runway and barrier pit on the south side is a facility used for storage and engineering space. A fenced compound is within 150 feet of the facility, providing for outdoor storage of large equipment.
A BAK-13 is installed approximately 100-feet to the west of the barrier facility with fair-lead tubes and sheaves (currently this installation is inoperable). A minimum amount of the South Base runway is open at this time with plans to renovate the runway back to full bearing capacity. The facility is capable of supporting a wide variety of barrier setups, BAK-9 through BAK-14 including mobile arresting gear evaluations. Instrumentation consists of high-speed photography from reinforced locations, speed trap, cable runout, loads, etc.]]>

Semipalatinsk-16 - Russia's largets nuclear test site
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By: kjfitz
@ 2005-12-08 11:58:00
Russian nuclear tests have been conducted in two major areas. The former Soviet Union’s largest nuclear test site was located near Semipalatinsk, Kazakhstan. The Semipalatinsk Test Site was founded in 1948 with the first nuclear explosion tested in 1949 and the last in 1989. Of the 467 nuclear detonations conducted there, 346 were underground, with the first of these underground experiments conducted in 1961. A total of 87 atmospheric and 26 surface nuclear detonations were also performed at the site between 1949 and 1989. Some tests involved multiple weapon detonations.

During the early days of the atomic energy program in the former Soviet Union, some unfortunate events occurred. The country's first atomic test in Semipalatinsk in 1949 exposed over 25,000 people downwind from the blast to significant doses of fission products.]]>

Russian northern nuclear test site Novaya Zemlya
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By: kjfitz
@ 2005-12-08 11:33:30
Novaya Zemlya was the site of extensive Soviet atmospheric and underground testing, including the largest thermonuclear device ever tested, a 58 megaton air-dropped bomb detonated October 23, 1961. Of the 42 underground explosions at Novaya Zemlya, 25 were accompanied by release of radioactive inert gases. There were three underwater explosions, each less than 20 kiloton, but most of the radionuclides remained in the water and sediments. A total of 17 reactors were dumped in the Barents Sea, to the west of Novaya Zemlya, including seven containing spent nuclear fuel.

Sub-critical hydrodynamic experiments with separate elements of nuclear ordnance are currently conducted at the Novaya Zemlya testing range. At least four or six such studies are conducted on Novaya Zemlya. These tests allow evaluation of criteria under which it is possible to store, transport and use nuclear ordnance safely. ]]>

Hunter's Point Crane with rocket test assembly

BEV

Hunter's Point Crane with rocket test assembly
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By: kjfitz
@ 2005-12-04 16:23:11
From Fickr [Telstar Logistics]

Picture of crane

Easily visible as you drive from San Francisco International Airport to downtown San Francisco, this crane was built in 1947. A news clipping written at the time describes its intended purpose:

"WORLD'S LARGEST overhead traveling crane, capable of lifting battleship gun turrets and other huge sections weighing as much as a million pounds, is shown being erected by U. S. Steel's American Bridge Company in the San Francisco Naval Shipyard at Hunter's Point, California. Completion of the giant lift will make Uncle Sam fastest on the draw among the nations in the replacing of battleship guns. These large caliber weapons wear down their rifling in a comparatively few rounds. Then the guns and their turrets are exchanged for new ones or for those which have been reconditioned. Swifter repair service for fighting ships also will be made possible by the twin cranes that will operate singly or in tandem atop a bridge type runway 207 feet high. The 730-foot runway spans a pier 405 feet wide, extending 162 1/2 feet over the water on each side. Total of 8,400 tons of steel went into the runway structure and cranes."

The triangular tower atop the crane was added for Polaris rocket testing during the late 1950s. (The following photo in this set shows a rocket test in progress)

Picture of rocket test

"OPERATION SKYCATCH--This sequence shows how a huge overhead assembly at the San Francisco Naval Shipyard catches a multi-ton dummy Polaris missile in mid-air and keeps it from free-flight. Left to right: Powerful blast sends missile skyward. At top of its trajectory, it is snubbed by modified arresting gear engine. Then the dummy Polaris is lowered for examination removal of instrumentation, and preparation for next test. In earlier testings the missile was hurled out into San Francisco bay and then retrieved. Lockheed Missiles and Space Division, who released these pictures, said this new method permits accurate study on dummy missiles which are structurally identical in live Polaris missiles."]]>

BEV

Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site
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By: TexasAndroid
@ 2005-11-16 12:44:28
Primary testing site for Soviet nuclear weapons.]]>

Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site
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By: TexasAndroid
@ 2005-11-16 12:44:28
Primary testing site for Soviet nuclear weapons.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/semipalatinsk-nuclear-test-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/semipalatinsk-nuclear-test-site/ Wed, 16 Nov 2005 12:44:28 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/semipalatinsk-nuclear-test-site/ 50.37780800 77.83624600 <![CDATA[Arizona State University Photovoltaic Testing Laboratory]]>

Arizona State University Photovoltaic Testing Laboratory
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By: robsv
@ 2005-10-22 00:13:30
What better place to test solar cells than the Arizona desert?]]>

Arizona State University Photovoltaic Testing Laboratory
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By: robsv
@ 2005-10-22 00:13:30
What better place to test solar cells than the Arizona desert?]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/arizona-state-university-photovoltaic-testing-laboratory/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/arizona-state-university-photovoltaic-testing-laboratory/ Sat, 22 Oct 2005 00:13:30 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/arizona-state-university-photovoltaic-testing-laboratory/ 33.30407100 -111.67383700 <![CDATA[Blossom Point Field Test Facility]]>

Blossom Point Field Test Facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2005-09-26 23:41:39
The Blossom Point facility is a 1,600 acre U.S. Army installation located near LaPlata, Maryland in southern Charles County. The Blossom Point Field Test Facility is an active facility under the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, Adelphi, Maryland.

This location provides horizon to horizon look angles and an interference free, low noise environment. To prevent interference with the sensitive satellite antenna radio receivers, the Blossom Point Field Site is protected by a 2000-ft-radius buffer zone. The Blossom Point Field Site provides simultaneous tracking and data acquisition, health and status monitoring, and command and control for NRL and Navy satellites. The site participates in the development of space systems, both satellite and ground elements, to support Navy mission requirements.]]>

Vandenberg Spin Test Facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2005-09-08 18:50:57
Spin Test Facility (building 1610), used for testing spacecraft balance.]]>

Vandenberg Spin Test Facility
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By: kjfitz
@ 2005-09-08 18:50:57
Spin Test Facility (building 1610), used for testing spacecraft balance.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/vandenberg-spin-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/vandenberg-spin-test-facility/ Thu, 08 Sep 2005 18:50:57 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/vandenberg-spin-test-facility/ 34.74671700 -120.60766300