Here’s a rare look at NASA’s STA, a modified Gulf Stream II jet. This aircraft simulates “an orbiter’s cockpit and handling qualities.” During the flight, pilots drop “the main landing gear at 37,000 feet, reversing engine thrust and playing with the flaps to decrease or increase lift.” Continue reading for the video.

In flight, the aircraft duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway.

[via Motherboard]

Author

A technology, gadget and video game enthusiast that loves covering the latest industry news. Favorite trade show? Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.