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> Those are NASA F/A-18s flying chase. Are there particular capabilities they have that would necessitate that type of aircraft specifically? I would think tha

• ceejayoz 3y ago
  For this particular mission, probably not; rule of cool probably played a factor. (They also have a much-upgraded 1950s B-57 for similar purposes; https://airbornescience.nasa.gov/aircraft/WB-57_-_JSC https://airbornescience.nasa.gov/aircraft/WB-57_-_JSC) For other missions, though, being able to get up to Mach 1.8 is probably helpful when you might be intercepting a Space Shuttle on the tail end of re-entry. Manoeuvrability is also a factor; being nimble helps get around a test aircraft. Or chasing one of these: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lockheed_Martin_X-59_Quesst https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lockheed_Martin_X-59_Quesst
• syndicatedjelly 3y ago
  It has the capability of looking fucking cool
• jjtheblunt 3y ago
  Maybe they're using the high definition optical targeting pods for video? "Chase aircraft also are used as camera platforms for research missions that must be documented with photographs or video. Aeronautical engineers monitor and verify various aspects of a research project by extensively using photos and video." from https://www.nasa.gov/centers-and-facilities/armstrong/f-a-18-mission-support-aircraft/ https://www.nasa.gov/centers-and-facilities/armstrong/f-a-18...
• sakjur 3y ago
  Wake turbulence and pilot experience could be factors. Fighter jets are designed to fly near larger aircraft and their pilots have the training for it.