NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

While many advances have been made in aviation, one thing remains beyond human control: the weather. While weather satellites and advanced forecasting techniques have improved weather prediction, airplanes still need to travel in all kinds of weather. Once airborne, airplanes can often avoid severe weather, but airplanes still need to take off and land in all weather conditions including the worst that winter has to offer.

By spraying a cloud of cold-water mist onto a model, NASA Glenn Research Center's Icing Research Tunnel simulates ice formation on aircraft surfaces during flight. The tunnel has been making it safe to fly in icing conditions since the early 1940s. Work continues today in the investigation of deicing and anti-icing fluids for use on the ground, deicing and anti-icing research on aircraft, including certification of ice protection systems for military and commercial aircraft.

A Glenn employee inspects a Commuter Transport Engine undergoing testing in the Icing Research Tunnel. Credit: NASA
Saturday, July 13, 2013 is your chance to come into the cold and see where NASA can "freeze to please." The Icing Research Tunnel will be open as a part of the Glenn monthly public tour program. The tour will include the control room and test section.

Please note that due to the age and design of the tunnel, most of this tour has limited accessibility.

To register, visitors should call 216-433-9653, or email sheila.d.reese@nasa.gov, (GRC-CEP0)[LOGICAL INNOVATIONS]. Phone 216-433-2016.

One-hour tours begin in the Briefing Center Auditorium at the following times:

• 10:00 a.m.
• 11:00 a.m.
• 12:00 p.m.
• 1:00 p.m.

Please note the following important guidelines:

• Advanced registration guarantees admission to the tour that begins at the Briefing Center.
• Access to the Saturday tour program is limited to U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs).
• All adult visitors are required to present government-issued photo identification, and LPRs are required to present their Permanent Resident Card. This includes bus drivers for scheduled groups.
• NASA reserves the right to limit the use of cameras and cell phones during the tour.
More Information:
>  Facility Tour Schedule
>  Glenn Research Center Events