The NASA Langley Research Center's integral role in past, present and future flights was fully exhibited during the aerial power of the Hampton Road Aviation Show from April 25 to 27.

The air show at NASA Langley United Base near NASA Langley in Hampton, Virginia attracted thousands of visitors throughout the weekend.

The weekend begins on STEM Day on April 25. Langley’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers educational and engagement activities, exhibitions and presentations to share NASA missions and encourage K-12 students from local schools to explore the possibilities of science, technology, engineering and math products.

"About the air show allows us to share NASA's aeronautical work with the public and provides Langley researchers and engineers with an opportunity to work directly with students and families to share the exciting work they have done," said Bonnie Murray, student services manager at Langley Ostem.

Langley Ostem's participation throughout the weekend continues as part of the STEM fair for the air show, visitors from NASA booth tested a paper helicopter in a small wind tunnel to explore flight dynamics, learn how NASA uses X-Planes for research, and designed their own X-Plane and tested experimental paper-on-paper designs. By observing the flights designed by the aircraft and improving each aircraft, students are involved in the engineering design process. NASA’s subject matter experts participated in these events to inspire young people by sharing some innovations and promote a variety of STEM career paths.

“By participating in NASA STEM area activities, students have the opportunity to see themselves play the role of NASA researchers,” Murray said. “Real learning experiences like this help build children’s STEM identities and increase their likelihood of pursuing their future careers.”

Air Show's static aircraft display includes NASA Langley's Cirrus Design SR22, a research aircraft used to support NASA's onboard science program, the scientific community and aviation research.

“Reflecting our strong, long-term partnership with JBLE, NASA Langley is proud to participate in this year’s air power for the Hampton Road Aviation Show,” said Glenn Jamison, Director of Langley Research Services. “Our relationship dates back to 1917, when NACA and Langley Field developed together in aerodynamic research, sharing Hampton’s airspace and facilities. Today, we continue to seek common interests with JBLE and find innovative solutions to complex problems.”

The monitors also feature several Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS) and NASA's P-3 Orion, a research aircraft at the NASA Wallops flight facility located in Wallops Island, Virginia.

Aerial performance visitors can explore a picture display that highlights NASA Langley’s rich aerial legacy, from its inception in 1917 to today’s Langley’s work in order to accelerate advances in aviation, science, and space technology and exploration. The crowd favorite Spacey Casey took photos of educators, students and guests throughout the weekend and brought the world a smile. Members of Langley's board of directors also represented the center at the event.

Brittny McGraw
NASA Langley Research Center