Aerial Facility
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ARM Aerial Facility (AAF) is an integral part of the U.S. Department of Energy's Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) User Facility, specializing in the collection of airborne data to complement the ground-based and satellite observations of ARM. AAF's operations include deploying aircraft to gather data on atmospheric conditions, clouds, aerosols, and radiation, which are critical for climate research.
Mission
The mission of the ARM Aerial Facility is to provide aerial observations that enhance the understanding of atmospheric processes by offering a vertical and spatial perspective not available through ground-based or satellite methods alone. This includes collecting data on cloud microphysics, aerosol properties, and radiative fluxes to support climate modeling, satellite validation, and the study of atmospheric phenomena"ARM Aerial Facility". Atmospheric Radiation Measurement User Facility. https://www.arm.gov/capabilities/observatories/aaf..
Parent organization
The AAF is managed by the U.S. Department of Energy's Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) User Facility, which is part of the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science. ARM oversees a network of observatories, including fixed, mobile, and aerial facilities, to conduct atmospheric research.
Legislation
The AAF was established as part of the ARM program without specific legislative action but as an extension of the DOE's commitment to climate and atmospheric research.
Partners
- Various academic and research institutions for collaborative scientific campaigns
- Aircraft service providers for operational support
- Other ARM facilities for integrated research efforts
Number of employees
The exact number of staff directly associated with AAF operations is not specified, but it includes pilots, scientists, and support personnel for each campaign.
Organization structure
The structure of AAF is centered around:
- **Campaign Management**: Organizing and executing field campaigns with specific scientific objectives.
- **Data Collection**: Operating aircraft with specialized instrumentation for atmospheric measurements.
Leader
The operations of the AAF are overseen by a Manager.
Divisions
The AAF doesn't have traditional divisions but operates through:
- Aircraft Operations: Manages the deployment of aircraft like the Bombardier Challenger 850.
- Instrumentation: Ensures the aircraft are equipped with necessary scientific instruments for data collection"ARM Aerial Facility". Atmospheric Radiation Measurement User Facility. https://www.arm.gov/capabilities/observatories/aaf..
List of programs
- Field campaigns for specific atmospheric research questions
- Long-term, regularly scheduled flights for continuous data collection
Last total enacted budget
Specific budget details for the AAF alone are not publicly itemized, as it is part of the ARM User Facility's broader budget.
Staff
The AAF operates with a team that varies depending on the campaign, including scientists, pilots, and technical support.
Funding
Funding for the AAF comes from the U.S. Department of Energy through the ARM User Facility's budget, which supports its research activities.
Services provided
The AAF provides services by conducting airborne measurements to study cloud and aerosol properties, atmospheric radiation, and other meteorological variables. This data is crucial for validating ground-based and satellite observations, filling in data gaps, and advancing our understanding of atmospheric science.
Regulations overseen
The AAF does not oversee regulations but complies with aviation and research regulations during its operations.
Headquarters address
While not specifically an address for a physical headquarters, AAF operations center around the ARM facilities, with significant activity near the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Washington.
History
The AAF has been part of the ARM program since its inception, with significant developments in its capabilities over the years, including the acquisition of new aircraft and the use of uncrewed aerial systems for research.