The DATR provides communications, radar, and telemetry for most NASA Armstrong research flights, according to officials. Modernization efforts began in the early 2020s. The range supports test flights of NASA's X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft and spaceflight communications.
Ongoing upgrades include new VHF ground antennas, updated electronic components, and software improvements for tracking the International Space Station and visiting spacecraft. NASA also installed additional antennas to ensure backup coverage.
The DATR processes and displays real-time radar, telemetry, and video data critical for monitoring research flights such as the CATNLF wing model. The CATNLF is a scale-model wing attached under a NASA F-15B research jet designed to improve laminar flow, reducing drag and lowering fuel costs.
The DATR supports aircraft platforms like the ER-2 high-altitude aircraft and the C-20A aircraft for science missions. The range is developing multiple approaches to streamline and shorten the time to process and validate raw flight data. One NASA approach is to automate and consolidate data processing steps from five down to one. Another approach leverages an existing partnership with the U.S. Air Force to enable multiple computers to post-process data from separate missions simultaneously. The collaboration aims to reduce processing time for post-flight data from two hours to less than 30 minutes.
Tara McCoy, acting deputy director for DATR Mission Operations, said the range provides real-time data, tracking, and situational awareness that help keep flight research safe and efficient. David Tow, DATR chief engineer, noted that faster data delivery allows engineers to determine whether test points need to be repeated or skipped.