Project Lead: Matthew McGill

Funding Approved: Fiscal Year 25
Project Status: In Progress  
Funded amount: $1,270,700 over three years

This initiative leverages the unique capabilities of the Operator Performance Laboratory and its research aircraft, along with airborne and ground-based sensors, to study the effects of climate change in the Midwest. By integrating these advanced measurement techniques, the project will gather detailed atmospheric and environmental data crucial for understanding climate impacts in the region. The project will create innovative, interdisciplinary research and educational opportunities across campus, providing a foundation for training the next generation of Earth scientists while enhancing Iowa’s competitiveness for grant funding from agencies such as NASA, the National Institutes of Health, and the National Science Foundation.

Activities to date:

• Hosted the first Heartland Environmental Alliance for Resilience and Transformation (HEART) consortium meeting Sept. 10 - 12, 2024, with participants from 20 different institutions.
• Secured an external science customer for use of the OPL aircraft, which will be paid for by a NASA science campaign.
• Showcased the OPL L-39ZA aircraft at the Air Force Research Labs Open House and director’s call on July 18, 2024. 

Next Steps:

Team members will purchase AgilePod hardware with the goal of installing it on OPL aircraft in 2025. Once integrated into the aircraft, AgilePod capabilities will allow the team to submit external funding proposals. Additionally, the project aims to involve at least 15 students (including undergraduates) in the initiative to provide them with exposure to sensor development techniques that can be integrated into Earth Science curriculum.