Flying NASA ‘chemical lab’ calls Wright-Patt home while studying urban pollution
NASA and NOAA "AEROMMA" air pollution study relies on Wright ... Dayton Daily News
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The World’s Largest Flying Chemistry Laboratory
Introduction
Scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NASA showcased the NASA DC-8 airplane at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which is considered to be “the world’s largest flying chemistry laboratory.”
Background
According to the Dayton Daily News, NASA and NOAA have chosen Wright-Patterson as their base of operations for a two-week study on air pollution over major cities. This study, named “Atmospheric Emissions and Reactions Observed from Megacities to Marine Areas” (AEROMMA), is the first of its kind.
Importance of Wright-Patterson
In interviews, scientists emphasized that Wright-Patterson’s support is crucial for the success of this investigation. Sarah Kapnick, NOAA chief scientist, stated that without Wright-Patterson’s support, the study would not have been possible.
Scientific Instruments and Measurements
NOAA and its partners are utilizing the 33 scientific instruments aboard the DC-8 to collect chemical measurements over densely populated cities such as New York City, Chicago, and Toronto. The choice of Wright-Patterson as the home base for this mission is due to its proximity to these cities.
The Unique DC-8
The DC-8 is the only plane of its kind in the world, making it an invaluable asset for this study. Working alongside two smaller NASA Gulfstream planes, the DC-8 flies at low altitudes, as low as 1,000 feet, to gather data in challenging conditions.
Investment and Collaboration
NASA’s investment in the DC-8 is considered priceless. The project involves four federal agencies, numerous academic institutions, and approximately 200 scientists. The focus is on studying how pollution sources have shifted over time and identifying effective solutions.
Sustainable Development Goals
- Affordable and Clean Energy
- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Climate Action
- Good Health and Well-being
- Life Below Water
- Partnerships for the Goals
Impact on Air Quality
Air pollution remains a concern, with the Dayton area experiencing a moderate air quality index (AQI) of 71. This can have adverse effects on individuals with respiratory conditions or the elderly. The project aims to provide data to inform decisions on reducing air pollution.
Future Applications
The findings from this study will be shared with state and local environmental officials to guide efforts in reducing air pollution. Additionally, the data will be used to evaluate the observations made by NASA’s newly launched TEMPO satellite, which provides hourly pollution data at a neighborhood level.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators in the Article
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
- SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
- SDG 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 3.9: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to hazardous chemicals and air pollution.
- Indicator for SDG 11.6: Air quality index (AQI) measurements in cities.
- Indicator for SDG 13.1: Resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.
- Indicator for SDG 14.1: Levels of marine pollution, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to hazardous chemicals and air pollution. |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. | Air quality index (AQI) measurements in cities. |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries. | Resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters. |
| SDG 14: Life Below Water | 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. | Levels of marine pollution, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: daytondailynews.com
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