For release: 08/08/02
Release #: N02-009
New date set for media to see unmanned aircraft used in NASA study on causes of lightning in storms
A new date has been set for the news media to view the behind-the-scenes activities of a NASA field study that seeks to understand the causes of electrical storms' fury. Scientists working at Naval Air Station Key West, Fla., are using a tool no atmospheric scientist has used before to study lightning a remotely piloted aerial vehicle. Media can register to see the aircraft and interview the study's researchers on Aug. 22.

What: A new date has been set for the news media to view the behind-the-scenes activities of a NASA field study that seeks to understand the causes of electrical storms' fury. Scientists working at Naval Air Station Key West, Fla., are using a tool no atmospheric scientist has used before to study lightning a remotely piloted aerial vehicle. Media can register to see the aircraft and interview the study's researchers on Aug. 22.
The previously scheduled media day, Aug. 8, has been moved to Aug. 22 due to Naval Station requirements. Press will be allowed access to the storm researchers and the unpiloted aircraft during the tour.
When: Thursday, Aug. 22. For security reasons, pre-registration by Aug. 19 is required to attend this event.
Where: Media who have been pre-approved to attend will be escorted from the main gate at Naval Air Station Key West, located off U.S. Highway 1 in Boca Chica Key, on Thursday, Aug. 22, at 9 a.m. EDT. NASA will provide transportation to and from the hanger. News media who do not pre-register by 5 p.m. EDT on Aug. 19 will not be allowed onto the facility.
To attend: News media representatives interested in covering the event must contact Steve Roy of the Marshall Media Relations Department at (256) 544-0034 no later than 5 p.m. EDT Aug. 19, with the name of their organization and Social Security number, as well as contact phone numbers. This information must be provided for all persons wishing to enter the facility to cover the tour. U.S. citizenship is required.
The study: This lightning research is part of the Altus Cumulus Electrification Study, a collaboration among NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala.; the University of Alabama at Huntsville; NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md.; Pennsylvania State University in University Park; and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc., San Diego.