Operational Readiness Test Operational Readiness Test ORT Define

Operational Readiness Test • Operational Readiness Test (ORT) – Define objectives and success criteria before the flights (e. g. , HI ORT) • Demonstrate Operations Day-in-the-Life Dry Run • Demonstrate End-to-End PRISM Data Collection and Processing • Demonstrate Science Data Collection and Processing – Decide what to do if we don’t meet the objectives before proceeding • HI ORT met i, ii, and half of iii • Data processing (specifically algorithm validation) is still being developed, two years after initial data collection 1

NASA vs CAS Aircraft Selection • Aircraft selection and modification (JPL-centric observations) – NASA vs Commercial Aircraft Services (CAS) • Availability • Flexibility • Capability – Involve the certifying organization (i. e. , AFRC) early in the design stage • New requirements in NPR 7900. 3 D • Part 91, Experimental no longer sufficient – Basing options during operations • • NASA has government bases in addition to FBO options Organization-specific access to airports (e. g. , Yap) Airport access, e. g. , International side of Cairns airport Local ramp requirements (e. g. , dayglo vests) – CAS costing algorithms • • Flight hours vs out-of-service RBO costs APU usage (above and beyond standard) Pilot accommodations – Contracts • Always take longer than expected • Get all parties involved early on; alternative is to beg forgiveness and upset a lot of people 2

Foreign Country Access • Foreign country access – Pilot experience is critical • CORAL had a pilot with 40 years flying in the Pacific – Palau entry/exit dates • Not a window • Ramp parking not guaranteed – Yap alternate • Identified as an alternate (emergency planning) before departure • Local authorities opened the airport just for us • Be prepared to pay cash for usage – Work with the local US Ambassador – Work with HQ • New process, no longer using the APACS system 3