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July 30, 2010Air Force Top StoriesRamstein Airmen test skills at Allied Strike 10View the slideshow. more... by afnews@dma.mil (Senior Airman Caleb Pierce) at July 30, 2010 1736 VA officials approve $2.8 million for Gulf War illness research The research incorporates recommendations of the department's Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses Task Force. "Reaching out to Gulf War Veterans is essential to the transformation of VA," said John R. Gingrich, the Veterans Affairs chief of staff. "This research is a great opportunity to do something that will improve the care and services these veterans have earned." more... 22nd Fighter Squadron participates in Allied Strike 2010
Members of the 22nd Fighter Squadron here will participate in Allied Strike 2010 when they launch two F-16 Fighting Falcons twice a day Aug. 2 through 5.
The 16 pilots flying the sorties are part of approximately 200 servicemembers and 24 aircraft from the U.S. and five European nations participating in AS10. The exercise is Europe's annual close-air support exercise held to conduct robust, realistic CAS training and assists in building partnership capacity among allied NATO nations and joint services to refine the latest operational CAS tactics. more... by afnews@dma.mil (1st Lt. Kathleen Polesnak) at July 30, 2010 1625 Airmen provide expertise, medical support at 100th National Boy Scout Jamboree The Airmen, including several U.S. Air Force Academy cadets, ran merit badge booths, and provided behind-the-scenes support like running a field hospital and supplying weather support, air traffic control for flyovers and safety oversight. "We've got a huge safety mission here," said Col. Lee-Ann Perkins, the 334th Air Expeditionary Group commander. "There's a lot of stuff out there that could potentially hurt someone so we've got a lot of folks here making sure this is a safe environment for the Scouts. It's a big job with the number of Scouts who are attending the Jamboree." more... by afnews@dma.mil (Staff Sgt. Jessica Switzer) at July 30, 2010 1519 Popular Science - Military, Aviation and SpaceIKAROS Solar-Sail Craft Successfully Steers With Strategically Placed LCDs, Using No Propellant IKAROS's Attitude-Shifting LCD Scheme JAXA Japan's IKAROS spacecraft is still solar sailing its way across the solar system in a proof of concept experiment that has gone, by all outward appearances, extremely well thus far. Marking another milestone for the mission, JAXA (Japan's space agency) announced earlier this week the completion of another successful experiment as IKAROS executed attitude control using thin LCD panel devices built into the edges of its membrane-like solar sail. One thing that may go unnoticed when you look at static images of IKAROS is that the sail rotates as the spacecraft glides along, collecting photons from sunlight as it goes to keep its forward momentum. IKAROS usually corrects its attitude via onboard thrusters attached to its main body, but if long-term space sailing is to become reality mission handlers need a way to create a disparity between the thrust on one part of the sail's surface versus the rest of the sail. To do this, JAXA researchers built eight blocks of thin liquid crystal panels into the edges of the solar sail, two on each edge. The panels are designed to be operated independently, so the LCDs can be activated on any part of the sail while on other parts they remain off. When activated, the LCDs reflect the incoming photons straight back, producing increased forward thrust; when deactivated, the incoming light is diffused, decreasing pressure on that portion of the sail. In this way, mission controllers can keep sunlight pressure on a certain fixed spot by activating and deactivating LCDs even as the sail spins, causing a gradual shift in the craft's attitude. The experiment continues, but for now it seems that JAXA engineers have figured out how to control the direction of a solar sailing spacecraft without using up precious propellant. That brings us one step closer to serious deep space travel beyond the boundaries imposed on conventional spacecraft by their limited fuel capacities. [JAXA] General Aviation NewsDOT secretary to GA: Keep on keeping onU.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood made a surprise appearance at the Meet the Administrator forum with FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt Thursday at AirVenture. LaHood, who was making his first visit to AirVenture as transportation secretary, told the standing room only crowd that he wanted to be at the show to “support GA.”
In his short remarks, LaHood said he was “delighted” to be at the show and wanted to give all pilots encouragement to “keep on keeping on.” “I know how important what you do is,” he said. “I will continue to make sure your flag of honor flies high at the Department of Transportation.” For more information: DOT.gov ===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Air Force Top StoriesAir Force Week in PhotosGeneral Aviation NewsAvgas concerns take center stage at OSHFAA Administrator has a message for GA pilots: He is “keenly” aware of our concerns about avgas. “I can assure you we have a good relationship with the EPA,” he told an AirVenture crowd in Oshkosh Thursday. “We both have roles to play, but it’s important for you to know that we are just beginning to look at the process.” In April the EPA released an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rule Making seeking comments on phasing out 100LL. Since then, there’s been a lot of discussions within the GA industry about possible replacements for the leaded fuel. Babbitt, who met during Oshkosh with the GA Avgas Coalition, noted the “community is committed to finding a solution to bring this to a successful conclusion so there will be no interruption in the supply.” “We all recognize that aviation is not unique — that we have an environmental responsibility,” he continued, adding that GA has a “very solid commitment from the FAA to find a solution.” ===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 NASA: Breaking NewsNASA's Hibernating Mars Rover May Not Call Home
NASA mission controllers have not heard from the Mars Exploration Rover Spirit since March 22, and the rover is facing its toughest challenge yet – trying to survive the harsh Martian winter.
General Aviation NewsThe show must go onOfficials at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in New York said that the Aerodrome’s Saturday Air Show featuring flying antique airplanes of the pioneer and barnstorming era will take place as planned at 2 p.m. TFRs over Rhinebeck for Chelsea Clinton’s wedding will be respected by re-routing biplane air tours away from the restricted area during the TFR period between 3 p.m. on Saturday through 3:30 a.m. Sunday morning. The 2 p.m. World War I Air Show and biplane rides on Sunday will not be affected, officials added. “There are abundant opportunities to fly our biplane ride passengers over beautiful areas of the Hudson River Valley other than over Rhinebeck,” said Don Fleming, Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome vice president, “but folks signing up for a biplane ride on Saturday should not expect to be treated to a birds-eye-view of the Clinton-Mezvinski nuptials.” Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome holds weekend air shows from mid-June through mid-October. Up to four passengers can fly together in the Aerodrome’s D-25 New standard biplane for $65 per passenger. The museum and grounds are open from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. There are four hangars full of 1909–1940s airplanes, automobiles and related artifacts to browse. For more information: OldRhinebeck.org ===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 From ‘rough’ to recoveryLike every other company in GA, it’s been a “rough” couple of years at BRS Aerospace, which manufactures whole airplane parachute systems. But that’s changing, the company’s president, Larry Williams, reported at AirVenture. “We’re starting to see a bit of recovery,” he said. “In May we had the highest sales ever in the history of the company.” ===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Weeks, Tucker join Lindbergh Foundation boardTwo of aviation’s best-known names, air show ace Sean D. Tucker and aircraft collection icon Kermit Weeks, have joined the board of The Charles A. and Anne Morrow Lindbergh Foundation. Both say they were drawn to the foundation by its substantial programs within the aviation community to further the Lindberghs’ strong interest in applying technology to solve environmental problems.  Lindbergh Foundation director John Peterson announced the addition of Kermit Weeks (second from left) and Sean Tucker (second from right) to the foundation's board. Also participating in the announcement during AirVenture was David Treinis, Lindbergh Foundation executive. ===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Dave Sclair. No comments. © GAN 2010 Yet another FAA extensionCongress is giving the FAA another short extension, this time until Sept. 30. The FAA has been operating without extended authority since the last authorization expired in 2007. That authority was passed in 2003 and Congress has been unable to agree since that time, passing extension after extension to keep the FAA funded. Included in this short extension is aviation safety and pilot training language brought about after the crash of a commuter aircraft the night of Feb. 12, 2009. Members of both the Senate and House who are charged with preparing legislation for reauthorization said they did not want to hold up the safety issues while they try to resolve differences that have resulted in the stalemate for permanent authorization.
===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Charles Spence. No comments. © GAN 2010 Are you willing to go that extra mile?The FAA can’t regulate professionalism, but it can ask pilots to take that extra step to continue training, Randy Babbitt, the agency’s administrator, said during a visit to AirVenture in Oshkosh. “Professionalism isn’t limited to commercial flying,” he said. “It pertains to all aspects of flying. The good news is that a vast majority of pilots are willing to that extra mile.” He pointed out that FAA, the Experimental Aircraft Association and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association all have websites that offer online courses, as well as links to where pilots can get training. ===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Rockin’ at Oshkosh Musician and pilot Carl Keating performs at the Sennheiser exhibit Thursday afternoon at AirVenture. Keating was one of a handful of musicians who performed at the exhibit during the week. All are members of the Flying Pilots Association. For more information: Sennheiser.com or FlyingMusicians.org. ===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Piper goes into the match-making businessPiper Aircraft unveiled its new PiperMatch program at this year’s AirVenture, designed to connect pilots who want to partner on a new Piper aircraft. “It’s like online dating,” said Randy Grooms, the company’s executive vp, adding, “We want to open up ownership to a wider audience.” Under the program, PiperMatch specialists work to link aviators with other pilots who share location, a similar budget, and have compatible profiles. The matching program, which is free, results in interested pilots receiving a list of potential co-owners who meet specific criteria. “It’s leveraging technology to take advantage of what is out there,” Grooms said. “We’re hoping to take partnership to a whole new level.” The program also offers participants a “bundle” of services to make ownership easier, including help from experts in everything from forming legal structures for co-ownership to assistance with tax, finance and insurance matters. The tax, legal, finance and insurance expertise is provided by the collaborative efforts of PiperMatch Ownership Services and the AOPA Insurance Agency. For more information: PiperMatch.com. ===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 July 29, 2010Air Force Top StoriesTeam successfully completes GEO-1 command and control interface testing
Researchers in the Space Based Infrared Systems program office at Air Force Space Command's Space and Missile Systems Center here successfully completed a major system-level test of the interfaces between all SBIRS ground facilities and the GEO-1 satellite, June 30.
"Successful completion of the 5001.2 system-level test demonstrates the program's positive progress towards delivery and launch," said Capt. James Palmer, the SBIRS Systems Test program manager. The test successfully demonstrated the command and control capability of the GEO-1 satellite using the Tri-band Antenna/Modem Suite modem. The test also demonstrated the ability to perform the process of transmitting and receiving data between the ground system and the satellite using rapidly changing frequencies known as frequency hopping. more... Senior Indian air force leaders visit Kirtland AFB The IAF leaders were here to learn how the U.S. Air Force operators use simulators for different aircraft and how to do distributed mission operations, according to Maj. Mark Hadley, 705th CTS assistant director of operations. DMO is the networking of different simulators together across not only the same building, but across the world. IAF officers toured the 705th CTS facilities to learn more about the employment of simulators for basic pilot training as well as for combined coalition operations. They are currently looking to upgrade their own simulators and this visit was part of a fact finding mission as they determine a way forward for the future. more... HUD, VA officials launch $15 million demo program to prevent veteran homelessness The HUD and VA grant funding is intended to provide housing assistance and supportive services to veterans who might otherwise be living in homeless shelters or on the streets. more... Aviation Week and Space TechnologyChinese Anti-Sat Debris Bears Down On ISS
The six-person U.S. and Russian crew aboard the Space Station was almost forced to seek shelter.
Air Force Top StoriesICBM test launches showcase Global Strike capabilities Missile maintenance and operational task forces from F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo., and Malmstrom AFB, Mont., combined with the 576th Flight Test Squadron at Vandenberg AFB to launch the missiles. The launches give the crews a unique training opportunity to turn the launch keys that send an actual missile rocketing into the sky, said Capt. Isaac Earnhart, the 341st Operations Support Squadron missile combat crew commander.. more... by afnews@dma.mil (Tech. Sgt. Marcus McDonald) at July 29, 2010 2243 Innovative training aids support EOD mission Airmen here help provide this training by fabricating EOD training aids for military customers. The devices that are replicated at the 982nd Maintenance Squadron represent a considerable cost savings to the customer, said Roberto Huezo, the 982nd MXS trainer development flight chief. more... by afnews@dma.mil (Tech. Sgt. Vernon Cunningham) at July 29, 2010 2229 Lynn: Guam tours provide insight, perspective "It's very helpful to see the geography," Mr. Lynn said July 28 while en route home from Guam. "These are relatively small islands and understanding the limits and capacity of the islands is very important. It's difficult to do that without putting your eyes on location." more... Metals technology Airmen provide precision for unique challenges The 332nd Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron's metals technology flight uses a lathe, drill press, torch and imagination to repair, and at times create, parts that are no longer available. "If it's made of metal, and it's on this base, or you have a schematic of it, we can fix it or make it," said Senior Airman Lloyd Davis, a 332 EMXS metals technology journeyman. more... by afnews@dma.mil (Staff Sgt. Phillip Butterfield) at July 29, 2010 2145 Wounded warriors help cancer survivor cycle to recovery
Last week, I hit the 2.5 year mark of being cancer free, and in that time I have been learning to accept the "new normal" that comes with that. Not everything will be as it was, but I do know that the Air Force that I serve in will be there to ensure I'm taken care of.
Earlier this year, I was selected to participate in the Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., which was the military's first Paralympic-style competition of nine sports. Initially, I thought running would be my sport, but during preparation for the games, recumbent cycling unexpectedly made its way into my life. more... by afnews@dma.mil (Senior Master Sgt. Michael Sanders) at July 29, 2010 2132 Aviation eBriefFormer Cirrus CEO to launch Kestrel brand in U.S.Former Cirrus CEO Alan Klapmeier will lead Kestrel Aircraft, a company bringing the Kestrel turboprop single to the U.S. -More- Is Your Entire Life Savings Worth 10 Minutes of Your Time? Life insurance protection for pilots often requires special care to be certain you have the right policy. Pilot Insurance Center knows life insurance for pilots. No aviation exclusions. Call PIC at (800) 380-8376 or www.piclife.com
 It's a buyer's market for business jetsBusinesses looking at purchasing corporate aircraft should take advantage of a buyer's market for business jets, according to -More-
PrivateSky Aviation receives certification for G550 repairsPrivateSky Aviation Services in Fort Myers, Fla., is expanding its repair business to include Gulfstream G550 jets. -More-
Q2 profit increases 4% at Honeywell, topping expectations -More- It's a great time to buy — finance your aircraft and get flying! With the ability to fix today's low rates up to 20 years and great deals on both new and used aircraft in the market, it's the perfect time to buy! Call AirFleet Capital for financing details at (800) 390-4324, request a quote at AirFleetCapital.com, and visit us at AirVenture - Hangar A Booth 1143!
 Indiana airport's takeoff, landing numbers are questionedA TV station questioned the methodology for counting takeoffs and landings at the Peru Municipal Airport in Miami County, Ind -More-
Montana airspace is restricted; Biden to visitAirspace over Gallatin Field in Montana will be restricted intermittently over the next few days, which led to speculation th -More- CARRY THE CARD THAT PAYS YOU TO SUPPORT GA – The AOPA credit card with WorldPoints® rewards allows you to earn great rewards & helps to maintain the freedom, safety, & affordability of GA. For every dollar spent on purchases, you earn one point & double points at over 4,700 FBOs*. Redeem your points for great rewards like cash, merchandise & travel. Learn More!
 Aerospace manufacturers show off latest fuel-saving technologiesFuel efficiency has been a major theme at the Farnborough International Airshow in England. -More- VedaloHD has just introduced our new prescription eyewear line at Airventure.
Our proprietary tri-stimulus sun filtering science which improves pilots visual performance in the cockpit is FINALLY available in Rx. Visit us at EAA at booth #1021 or call 800-801-4523 for more info. www.VedaloHD.com  Florida pilots restore Stearman biplaneFlorida pilots Liz and Jonathan Amundsen spent their second date and honeymoon at the EAA Airventure in Oshkosh, Wis., and wi -More-
Savor the views from ballooning over Napa Valley, Calif.Hot air ballooning over Napa Valley, Calif., provides views of vineyards from a few hundred feet above the ground, according -More-
40 days and 40 nights: Pilot to visit 50 statesPilot Michael Combs plans to travel to all 50 U.S. states in 40 days. -More-  FAA establishes ADS-B rule-making committeeThe Federal Aviation Administration has established an ADS-B In aviation rule-making committee with around 24 members. -More-  Class C airspace over Long Beach not justifiedThe Los Angeles area contains some of the most complex and congested airspace in the country. -More- Sectional charts are sometimes unwieldy in the cockpit. EZFlightChart.com has come up with a solution — a spiral-bound version of a chart. Now offering charts covering the entire continental United States! Prices start at just $12.99. Use coupon code "AOPA32" for a 20% discount on your order. Click Here to learn more and view the demo video.
 Linda Henley,American consultant and motivational speakerIf you think of yourself as the woman in the Cartier watch and the Hermes scarf, a house fire will destroy not only your poss -More-
Popular Science - Military, Aviation and SpaceThe Army's New Robotic Tentacle Manipulator Uses Teams of Snakebots to Manipulate Objects The Robotic Tentacle Manipulator T'Jae Gibson Snake-like robots are nothing new -- for instance, Virginia Tech has developed some pretty amazing pole-climbing snakebots, and the Israeli military has a weaponized recon 'bot in the works -- but the U.S. Army Research Lab is taking military snakebots to a new level. Its Robotic Tentacle Manipulator is using snakebot tech to develop a scalable system in which several robots work in unison to manipulate objects. Like many of its counterparts, the individual RTM snake can slither into tight spaces, climb impassible obstacles, or swim where soldiers cannot, all the while beaming back images to the soldier controlling it by remote. Each snake is equipped with a sensor array, not least of which is a LIDAR scanner that lets it render 3-D depictions of objects, landscapes, or faces. But the snakes also work in groups, acting more like fingers or the tentacles of an octopus. Arranging several of them on a circular base creates an array that can gingerly pick up, rotate, and inspect an IED or possibly even open a door -- a seemingly simple task that falls outside the capabilities of most robotic platforms. Its touch sensitivity allows it to do delicate work -- you don't want to squeeze a live munition, for instance -- yet in tandem the snakes could be reasonably strong. The developmental hardware that the RTM program is currently working with spun out of research into snakebots conducted in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon's Robotics Institute and consists of three 9.5-inch tentacles and a large screen laptop for the operator. The master program runs advanced algorithms that are able to manipulate the motors in each link of the snakes to work in concert as though they belong to single organism. But the system is completely scalable, so a small custom array could be designed to give the Army's Warrior robot system a more dexterous "hand," while larger tentacle arrays could be fitted to larger vehicles or robots. Air Force Top StoriesLast Air Force police transition team completes mission In a ceremony here, 732nd Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, Det. 2 officials transferred authority to officials from the Army's 94th Military Police Company, who will be taking over in an advise and assist role with the Iraqi police. "We're officially the final Air Force police transition team in Iraq," said Maj. David Lederer, the Det. 2 commander. more... by afnews@dma.mil (Staff Sgt. Sanjay Allen) at July 29, 2010 2032 General Aviation NewsTempest debuts spark plugsTempest has added a line of spark plugs to its brand of aviation products. Aero Accessories, which manufactures carburetors and fuel pumps, ignition components, starters, oil and pneumatic filtration products and more, purchased the Unison AutoLite line of spark plugs last year and has now completed the relocation of spark plug manufacturing from Rockford, Ill., to its new manufacturing facility in Gibsonville, N.C. , John Herman, vp, said at this week’s AirVenture. He added the company has received FAA/PMA approvals and started shipping its massive premium spark plugs. Premium fine wire plugs will begin shipping in about four weeks, he said. For more information: TempestPlus.com.
===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Popular Science - Military, Aviation and SpaceX-Prize Challenge Offers $1.4 Million for Revolutionary Oil Cleanup Tech The Spill is Capped, but the Oil Remains NASA From the people that brought you private spaceflight and super-fuel-efficient automobiles comes the $1.4 million Wendy Schmidt Oil Cleanup X Challenge. X-Prize officials announced today a $1 million purse for the team that can demonstrate the most efficient method of capturing crude oil from the ocean surface. Inspired, of course, by the ongoing Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico -- which as of this writing appears to still be contained -- the new X Challenge aims to provide impetus for both venture capital and innovative talent gravitate toward next-gen oil cleanup technology. "The devastating impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill will last for years and it is inevitable that future spills will occur -- both from wells and from transport tankers," stated X-Prize Chairman Dr. Peter Diamandis at this morning's official announcement of the prize in Washington, D.C. The challenge will be a two-stage affair. Phase one calls for those vying for the prize to put their technical approaches to the problem before a panel of judges that will evaluate them for feasibility, cost, scalability, environmental impact, and the degree to which the technology improves over current methods like skimming and booms. Phase two, of course, is the demonstration of the technology in action. Competitors won't actually take their ideas to the Gulf for testing -- all evaluations will take place at the National Oil Spill Response Research & Renewable Energy Test Facility (OHSMETT) in New Jersey. But with any luck some of that technology will make it to the field eventually. The team with the single best technology will receive a $1 million prize purse, with second and third place taking home $300,000 and $100,000 respectively. The prize's namesake and benefactor, Wendy Schmidt, is the wife of Google CEO Eric Schmidt and the philanthropic force behind a handful of charitable foundations, including the Schmidt Marine Science Research Institute, which she co-founded with her husband. As Debris Threatens ISS, NASA Releases Top-Ten List of Space Junk Culprits Orbital Debris The dots on this NASA-generated chart represent known pieces of large orbital debris. NASA The Fengyun satellite that China blew up in 2007 is space enemy number one
NASA has been tracking a piece of space junk on course for a near collision with the International Space Station this week, but while the agency continues to monitor the debris -- a leftover from China's brilliant shooting down of the Fengyun 1C weather satellite during a missile test in 2007 -- Russian Flight Control authorities have issued an all-clear, saying an avoidance maneuver will not be necessary. This month, NASA's Orbital Debris Program Office released data naming the top ten incidents contributing to the space junk problem. The Fengyun fiasco is hands down the largest single contributor to the growing space junk crisis. NASA has identified some 19,000 objects larger than four inches that are running loose in orbit at extremely high rates of speed just waiting for a functioning satellite, a spacecraft, or the ISS to get in their paths. Of those, 2,841 are thought to have come from the destruction of Fengyun 1C. Most of the garbage hurtling through space belongs to China and the Soviet Union, the report says, though Western commercial interests and space agencies also shoulder their shares of the blame. Some of the blame can even be divvied up; last year an operational Iridium communications satellite collided with a spent Russian Cosmos spacecraft, spawning nearly 2,000 pieces of smaller debris. But Europe could soon take the top spot on the space junk tally. When the European Space Agency's Envisat Earth observation satellite goes defunct in three years, the ESA will be the proud owner of the largest and most dangerous piece of junk out there: a nearly 9-ton, $2.9 billion piece of orbiting detritus that won't be pulled into Earth's atmosphere for 150 years. The danger isn't that the massive satellite might slam into the ISS -- the chances of that are quite slim. But if it collides with another large piece of junk at high speed -- say, a rocket stage or another retired satellite -- the impact could release 10 times as much junk as the Iridium-Cosmos smash up. With so much junk up there, the DoD has even warned of a scenario in which such a massive collision could trigger a cataclysmic chain reaction in which one impact begets another and then another until entire orbits are unusable. Unlikely, sure, but some insist it's possible. The good news is we're working on the problem. Northrop Grumman is working with DARPA to develop a ground-based radar system to help track space debris from the ground, and the U.S. Air Force is planning to launch a Space-Based Space Surveillance satellite in the near future that will help direct traffic in space. Assuming, of course, a piece of orbiting junk doesn't knock it clean out of the sky. Aviation eBriefCongress delays FAA reauthorization; safety rules to move separatelyCongress will put off a long-term FAA reauthorization bill until September, but new safety rules focused on commuter airlines -More- Which Life Insurance Carrier Offers the Best Premium Rates for Pilots? You can find out with an easy online quote from the Pilot Insurance Center. Don't overpay— Get complete coverage with no aviation exclusions from the best A+ rated companies. (800) 380-8376 or www.piclife.com
Airspace restrictions over N.Y. site of Clinton weddingThe Federal Aviation Administration issued temporary flight restrictions for the airspace over the site of Chelsea Clinton's -More-
FAA: Homebuilt aircraft need to address safetyRandy Babbitt, administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, said homebuilt aircraft need to improve safety measures. -More-
Dassault reports Q2 recovery for business jet ordersDassault Aviation of France reported a slight recovery in business jet orders for the second quarter. -More-
Bombardier plans to announce an expansion at a Kansas plantBombardier is set to announce that it is expanding its facility in Wichita, Kan. -More- Summer Sale - ANY Airplane Built into a Desktop Model - Have any aircraft recreated into a beautiful Desktop Replica. Our Premium Plus models feature clear windows with detailed interiors. Your aircraft, paint scheme and registration number. Over 3,000 different models available in stock & custom made. Call 866-580-8727 or visit www.factorydirectmodels.com.
 Kansas airport receives 2 grants for improvementsThe Salina Airport Authority accepted airport grants from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Kansas Department of Tr -More-
Hawkins Field drafts master planThe Jackson Municipal Airport Authority is working with an engineer and architect to craft a master plan for Hawkins Field in -More- Business Opportunity — Hangar Development/Management. The Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority seeks a developer/manager of a hangar complex at Reno-Stead Airport. A mandatory pre-proposal meeting will be held September 1, 2010 at 4895 Texas Avenue, Reno, Nevada. For more details visit renoairport.com or call
(775) 328-6480.  Babbitt seems to contradict EPA statement on 100LLRandy Babbitt, administrator of the Federal Aviation Authority, on Wednesday seemed to contradict statements by the Environme -More- Pilot flies across country to raise money for cancer centerPilot Linsey Kornblau plans to travel about 4,400 miles to raise money for the Massey Cancer Center in Richmond, Va. -More-
Nebraska flight school offers hope to at-risk youthsA flight school in Omaha, Neb., offers flight lessons to at-risk youths through a venture with the Eastern Nebraska Community -More-
KidVenture gives young pilots first trainingKidVenture at the AirVenture airshow in Oshkosh, Wis., allows young aspiring pilots to clock up to two hours of training time -More- Today's students are wired differently. Jeppesen's training is plugged in accordingly. The interactive learning experience provided in online courses helps students to remember and better understand the information. Course content is state-of-the art and is developed by instructors, pilots and subject matter experts. Check out Jeppesen's Online Training Library today.
 Time running out to participate in GA surveyAircraft owners who received a postcard invitation or survey by mail for the FAA's annual General Aviation and Part 135 Activ -More-
AOPA's Remos steps up to cross-country challengeIs a light sport aircraft a practical cross-country flying machine? -More-
Get the latest news at AirVenture with AOPA LiveAOPA is streaming the action at EAA AirVenture so that you can be a part of the fun by watching it on AOPA Live. -More-
Jake Steinfeld,American actor and fitness personalityWhen you feel good about yourself, others will feel good about you, too. -More-
Popular Science - Military, Aviation and SpaceA Video Game Controller that Stimulates with Hot and Cold Sensations Controllers Get Temperature Sensitive Tech Tokyo Metropolitan University First we got wireless video game controls, then motion sensing controllers, and now even a controller-free video game interface. But the next stage of human-computer interaction could be controllers that add hot and cold sensations to users' simulated experiences. An experimental new video game controller just revealed at this week's SIGGRAPH conference includes a pair of thermoelectric panels on each side of a controller. Those surfaces heat or cool rapidly in reflection of what's happening in the game, offering players a new sensory connection to what's happening on the screen. The controller temperature doesn't swing wildly - less than 10 degrees in either direction in just five seconds - but apparently a small sensation is all that's needed to add a rich layer of sensory experience to a virtual reality environment. No word on whether any major console makers are eyeballing such technology, but the idea is pretty cool. After all, remember how thrilling it was when our gaming peripherals started vibrating? Air Force Top StoriesBody after baby: Getting back into the groove With the ongoing emphasis on physical fitness and new bi-annual testing requirements, it's more important than ever for new moms to get back into shape after having a baby. That is where health and wellness center officials can help. The staff at the HAWC makes continuous efforts to create innovative programs to cover practically every aspect of physical fitness improvement and injury prevention. One of the newest physical training programs was designed especially for new active-duty mothers. more... by afnews@dma.mil (Tech. Sgt. Krisitna Newton) at July 29, 2010 1657 Photo essay: Cadets learn skills in summer camp View the slideshow: more... by afnews@dma.mil (Senior Airman Christopher Griffin ) at July 29, 2010 1648 No survivors of Elmendorf C-17 crash "Our deepest sympathy and sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of those Airmen killed in this crash," said Col. John McMullen, the 3rd Wing commander. "Yesterday, we lost four members of our Arctic Warrior family, and it's a loss felt across our entire joint installation. Right now, our immediate focus is on providing all possible support to the loved ones of our fallen aviators. We are also engaged in a deliberate investigative process." more... Popular Science - Military, Aviation and SpaceLast Shuttle Mission Will Test 3-D Video Docking System For Shuttle's Replacement (+Video) STORMM Docking System Engineers at Ball Aerospace examine a new docking system, designed for the Orion spacecraft, which will fly on space shuttle Endeavour in February. Shuttle astronauts tested the equipment last week at Ball. The experiment is called Sensor Test for Orion Relative Navigation Risk Mitigation (STORRM). Ball Aerospace In this modern economy, apparently nothing is sacred -- not even the space shuttle is spared the indignity of training its younger replacement. During what is planned to be the last shuttle flight ever, astronauts onboard space shuttle Endeavour next February will test a new docking system designed for the Orion spacecraft. The system provides real-time 3-D images to the crew and is more streamlined and more accurate than the shuttle's docking sensors. Last week, the STS-134 crew got a preview of the technology from Ball Aerospace, whose engineers designed the system with workers from Lockheed Martin, NASA's primary contractor on the Orion project. The new docking system involves an eye-safe flash Lidar Vision Navigation System and a high-definition docking camera. The system's resolution is 16 times that of the shuttle's, and it provides data from as far away as three miles, triple the shuttle's ability. It's not often that engineers can test future spaceflight systems in space, notes Jeanette Domber, the project lead for the shuttle test, called "Sensor Test for Orion Relative Navigation Risk Mitigation" (STORMM). "There's nothing like collecting data in this environment, compared to the testing we can do on the ground," she said. On the 11th day of the last shuttle mission, astronauts will make a penultimate departure from the International Space Station and move about 3.5 miles away. As the shuttle slowly returns to the ISS, the Orion docking system will switch on. The shuttle will approach the station the way Orion would, and engineers at Ball, Lockheed and NASA will gather streams of data to improve their system's algorithms. Astronauts will really be using the shuttle's existing docking system, but astronaut Andrew Feustel (currently co-starring in the Hubble IMAX movie) will take the new one for a test drive. The tests will improve spacecraft docking capability regardless of what Congress and the White House decide to do with the Constellation program. It could be used by pilots or in unmanned craft, says Lisa Hardaway, Ball's chief engineer for the Orion project. If the Obama administration decides to send a vehicle to an asteroid, for instance, a system like this could simplify the rendezvous. "The beauty of our instruments is that they can be used on any vehicle for any application. For any incarnation that Orion ends up in, our vehicle is still applicable," Hardaway says. Befitting the space program's legacy, the system might also be useful for Earth applications -- its capability to determine shapes, intensity, and distance could improve terrain mapping, deforestation monitoring and hazard-avoidance systems in transportation. The space shuttle uses different sensors as it approaches the ISS. At far distances, astronauts track their target with radar. As they approach the station, they use a trajectory control system and a laser. The new system integrates everything, Domber says. The Lidar system sends out a laser pulse, which is reflected to a sensor and translated into computer data. The astronauts will know exactly where their spacecraft is relative to its docking target, and the high-def camera shows them a real-time view. Lidar systems can be dangerous, especially for astronauts peering out the space station's cupola to catch a view of the action. Engineers had to build a small but powerful Lidar laser that wouldn't hurt astronauts' eyes, Domber says: "We have done eye-safe lasers that require much more power, and are larger, and we have done not-eye-safe lasers in a small package. We needed to combine the two to make it safe." The laser fits in the palm of your hand, and the whole package is about the size of a bread box. It is the latest in a suite of new technologies meant to further NASA's goal -- if not Obama's -- to see Orion fly in 2013. And the latest to help shepherd the shuttle into the annals of history. Learn more about it in this video.
General Aviation NewsBecker units NVG compatibleBecker Avionics’s Audio Control Units (ACU) for its Digital Audio and Intercom System (DVCS6100) are now delivered as Night Vision Goggle (NVG) NVIS green B compatible or, upon request, as NVG certified. ===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 West Star opens CAE location
West Star Aviation, Inc. has opened its newest facility at Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) in South Carolina. The facility is available for maintenance services for a wide range of corporate aircraft, including Lear, Hawker, Citation, Westwind, Falcon 10/20, KingAir, and Conquest. West Star Aviation specializes in airframe repair and maintenance, engine repair and maintenance, major modifications, avionics installation and repair, interior refurbishment, paint, parts, surplus avionics sales, and accessory services. With facilities in East Alton, Ill.; Grand Junction, Colo.; Columbia; Aspen; and Dallas, the company also provides FBO services for transient aircraft at its newly remodeled East Alton and Grand Junction facilities. For more information: WestStarAviation.com or 800-922-2421.
===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Impatience leads to crashThis July 2008 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others. Aircraft: Cessna 172. Injuries: None. Location: Salmon, Idaho. Aircraft damage: Substantial. What reportedly happened: The pilot was in a hurry. He noted that the winds were gusty and variable, shifting from 190° to 210° and varying velocities in minutes. He decided to attempt takeoff. During the initial climb out, the wind shifted and the airplane was not able to maintain altitude. It landed hard beyond the departure end of the runway and the nose landing gear folded back into the airplane, causing damage to the firewall. Probable cause: The pilot’s decision to takeoff in known adverse wind conditions that led to an encounter with a windshear, the resulting inability of the pilot to maintain airspeed, and a stall/mush into the terrain. For more information: NTSB.gov
===> Posted on July 29, 2010 by Meg Godlewski. No comments. © GAN 2010 Air Force Top StoriesElmendorf AFB C-17 crashes in Alaska At the time of the accident, it was on a local training mission. Four aircrew were on board, and their condition is unknown at this time. First responders are on scene. A board of officers will investigate the accident, and more information will be released as it becomes available. more... The Experimental Aircraft AssociationScratchin' out a new design
In today's world of kit build-this and quick build-that, it is ever rarer to see an all-original, scratchbuilt airplane, once a common site at Oshkosh and other fly-ins around the country. One of those rare one of a kind scratchbuilt creations is here at EAA AirVenture 2010, parked by the Brown Arch, Chris Christiansen's one of a kind Savor.
Seventy-five years of Flying Fortresses
It's been 75 years, that's three quarters of a century, since the prototype of the Flying Fortress series took to the skies for the first time over Seattle, Washington. For so many reasons, the B-17 Flying Fortress became an American icon.
The Business of Oshkosh is on solid ground
On Monday, after one of the most unusual days in the 40 years of Oshkosh, I ran into Hartzell Propeller patriarch Jim Brown. After we made universal comments about the soggy ground and the thousands of airplanes that weren't here because they couldn't find a place to park, Jim, without me asking, said Hartzell had one of the best days ever at its exhibit with big numbers of airplane owners shopping for new propellers.
Maverick roadable aircraft on a mission
Glancing at its spec sheet you'd think it was a high-performance compact sports car: zero to 60 in 3.9 seconds, a Subaru EJ22 engine, a CVT belt-drive transmission, and less than 1,000 pounds total weight. And while you'd be mostly correct.
Cinderella at the Anniversary Ball
Call N74589 the Cinderella of AirVenture's DC-3 Anniversary Ball. Seven and a half weeks ago the DC-3 was sitting in a field at the Covington Municipal Airport (9A1) in Georgia-virtually abandoned, a landmark to area pilots and some residents, and an eyesore to others.
Aspen Avionics debuts new products, programs
Aspen's high valued glass cockpit is now approved for aircraft weighing up to 12,500 pounds. Certification of its Evolution primary flight display (PFD) for Class III aircraft, those weighing between 6,000 and 12,500 pounds, was among the new products and programs Aspen Avionics introduced at AirVenture.
Rounders Plan Three Year RV-7 Trip
For most Rounders, as those who have crossed every longitude are known, their trip is over in a relatively short period of time. Not so for Detlef Heun and Lilliana Tagliamonte. Their rounder plan, which also includes touching all the latitudes, is expected to take three years.
EPA clarifies avgas replacement process: No deadline, and FAA has major role
In a letter Monday to the General Aviation Avgas Coalition, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) acknowledged it has no jurisdiction to regulate the fuel an aircraft burns and has not established a deadline by which aviation gasoline's lead content must be reduced.
Breaking in an RV-10 Brazilian Style
What's the first thing you would do if you just took delivery of a brand new airplane? If you said you were flying it to Oshkosh, no pilot would be surprised.
Sonex electric power: It looks simple, but sparks challenges
What could be simpler than an electric powered airplane? A motor with just one moving part, a battery, a control box, some wires to connect them, just hook 'em up and fly, right? Radio controlled model folks have been doing it for years.
AOPA NewsIndividual California CFIs are not subject to costly reg
As the Aug. 1 implementation deadline for California's Private Postsecondary Act of 2009 looms, AOPA has been working with state legislators to delay the effective date and revise the law. The association has been reviewing the current law and seeking clarification on who is actually affected by the new requirements.
A pilot’s eye: EAA AirVenture 2010
Take a look at the show from the eyes of an aviator in AOPA’s online photo gallery. For a unique perspective, view our top picks in this slide show.
TSA, DHS open dialogue with GA community on security
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Transportation Security Administration Administrator John Pistole got a glimpse at the heart of general aviation at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wis., this week. The two met with AOPA and other GA associations and industry leaders to reaffirm their commitment to solve GA security issues and maintain an open dialogue with the industry.
NASA: Breaking NewsNASA Opens Online Voting For Next Desert RATS Exploration Site
NASA is inviting the public to choose an area in northern Arizona where explorers will conduct part of the annual Desert Research and Technology Studies, known as Desert RATS.
NASA Simulates Space Exploration At Remote Arctic Crater Site
NASA personnel are among a group of international researchers who are in the Canadian Arctic assessing concepts for future planetary exploration as part of the Haughton-Mars Project, or HMP-2010.
General Aviation NewsDC-3 devotion
Heather McNevin, a pilot and air traffic controller from Northfield, Minn., shows her appreciation for the Herpa DC-3 Wednesday at AirVenture. The DC-3’s 75th anniversary is being celebrated at this year’s show, with more than a dozen DC-3s and C-47s parked throughout the grounds. ===> Posted on July 28, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Accident rates: Improving, but not enough
He did concede that the GA accident rate is actually “trending” better, with constant improvements. “But,” he said, “we’ve set ambitious goals and GA is not achieving those goals.” ===> Posted on July 28, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 NextGen: Changing the way GA fliesThe Next Generation Air Traffic Control System, known as NextGen, will change the way GA flies, FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt said during a visit to AirVenture. In fact, the change is as “big a jump as going from a piston to a jet,” he said. ===> Posted on July 28, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Ready for ADS-BFreeFlight Systems introduced its line of RANGR 978 MHz ADS-B products, including ADS-B transmitters, transmitters with WAAS GPS, transceivers, and transceivers with WAAS GPS, Wednesday at AirVenture in Oshkosh. The final FAA rule, released in May, dictates an ADS-B compliant system must have a high integrity position source and a radio that sends specific information from that position source to ATC, FreeFlight’s Jamie Luster said, noting the easiest way to achieve this requirement is to pair a TSO-C145/C146 WAAS GPS with an ADS-B approved transmitter. In addition, 978MHz compliance requires a small control head for entering squawk codes. The RANGR family ranges in price from $1,200 to $6,995. “For a relatively small entry fee, people can equip their planes today and get free traffic and weather forever,” said Tim Taylor, the company’s president and CEO. ===> Posted on July 28, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Low and slow
Flying low and slow, the Goodyear Blimp got a lot of attention at Oshkosh Wednesday afternoon.
===> Posted on July 28, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Lycoming now taking orders for LSA engine
Lycoming Engines is now taking orders for experimental non-certified versions of its 233 series Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) engine. “The 233-LSA series in an important new engine in Lycoming’s product line, meeting the needs of the growing LSA market,” says Michael Kraft, Lycoming senior vice president and general manager, who notes the engine is capable of running on unleaded automotive fuels as well as avgas. ===> Posted on July 28, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 The ‘deliberate’ certification processWe’ve all heard the old joke: Nothing can be certified in aviation until the paperwork weighs as least as much as the airplane or product. Why is the FAA so tough on certification, FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt was asked during a visit to AirVenture. “We’ve actually proven to be quite flexible,” he said, pointing to the Light Sport Aircraft category, in which aircraft meet ASTM standards, creating a “fast track” to certification. “In the more complex areas, we hope people appreciate that we’re very deliberate on purpose,” he said. “We can’t think something works — we have to know it works. People’s lives depend on it.” ===> Posted on July 28, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010 Baron QuikLink debuts
Baron Services, the parent company of WxWorx, unveiled Baron QuikLink, the company’s subscription-based aviation weather data service for preflight weather analysis, during AirVenture. Supplying graphical weather information over an internet connection, QuikLink provides weather coverage across the continental United States and southern Canada with pricing tiers starting at $14.99 per month. A complement to an XM WX Satellite Weather subscription, Baron QuikLink is offered at 50% off the monthly subscription prices to current XM Weather subscribers, according to company officials. ===> Posted on July 28, 2010 by Janice Wood. No comments. © GAN 2010
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