About the Reduced Gravity

About The C-9B Aircraft

Aircraft: A two-engine turbofan aircraft similar to the McDonnell-Douglas DC-9
Crew: Pilot, copilot, flight engin C-9B image

eer, and two reduced gravity test directors

Aircraft Description and Provisions

Electrical approximate power available (Refer to the C-9B Interface Document)

-- 28VDC, 150 amps

-- 110VAC, 400 Hz, single phase, 30 amps

-- 110VAC, 60 Hz, three phase, 30 amps per phase

-- 110VAC, 60 Hz, single phase, 60 amps

Still and motion picture photography and video provided
Most test equipment bolted to the floor using 20-inch tiedown grid attachment points
Vent/vacuum system to dump combusted gasses overboard
Inert gasses (Nitrogen, Helium and Argon) available
Breathing air available

Cabin Cross-Section View

Floor Plan

(This image will be available later.)

Cargo Bay

The C-9B cargo bay test area is approximately 45 feet long, 104 inches wide, and 80 inches high. The aircraft is equipped with electrical power, an overboard vent system, and photographic lights. Air and nitrogen sources are also available. Ground facilities include a test equipment build-up area, briefing room, fax, and telephones.

Typical Mission

A typical mission is 2 to 3 hours long and consists of 40 to 50 parabolas. These parabolas can be flown in succession or with short breaks between maneuvers to reconfigure test equipment. The Reduced Gravity Office provides scheduling, test coordination, and in-flight direction for the test programs.