Latest Developments (as of September 2005):   In August of 2004, AeroTech’s enhanced turbulence (E-Turb) algorithms were incorporated into a Rockwell Collins MultiScan® radar and installed in a Delta Air Lines B-737-800.   Since then the E-Turb radar system has been used and evaluated by Delta Air Lines pilots during commercial revenue flights throughout the United States and the Caribbean.   The evaluation program, being performed under the Turbulence Element (TPAWS) of NASA’s Aviation Safety and Security Program, is designed to evaluate the E-Turb radar system’s ability to increase the pilot’s situational awareness of turbulence, and assess the system’s ability to help reduce encounters with turbulence..   Recordings from the E-Turb radar have been downloaded on a routine basis, providing researchers ar Rockwell Collins and ATR the chance to evaluate the radar's performance.   The results of the analysis of the collected E-Turb radar data and the feedback from the Delta pilots have been extremely positive.   The evaluation will conclude in September of this year. 

Below is a screenshot from an E-Turb radar evaluation flight onboard Rockwell Collins' Sabreliner in July 2005.  Green, yellow, and red represent increasing radar reflectivity levels.  Magenta represents the turbulence. 

	Image courtesy of Rockwell Collins

Past Accomplishments: New algorithms/techniques developed and flight tested proving feasibility of technology and significant improvement in warning capability (up to 20km ahead of aircraft).

AeroTech Contributions: Aircraft response development, conversion of radar measurement to aircraft safety hazard index, flight test development, and data analysis. Management of Technology Evaluation contract. Participating in certification process.

Partners: NASA, Delta Air Lines, National Center for Atmospheric Research, Research Triangle Institute, Rockwell Collins

Related Web Site: NASA TPAWS Program