3.5-Foot Hypersonic Wind Tunnel

The 3.5-foot wind tunnel is a research facility at NASA that generates airflows exceeding Mach 5 to study aerodynamic effects on aircraft and spacecraft. The installation uses specialized measurement systems to capture data during hypersonic testing.

The facility opened in 1961 as part of the national effort to advance aerospace technology during the Space Race period. It evolved into an important center for hypersonic research in the following decades.

Researchers from government agencies, universities, and companies work together at this location to develop and test new flight technologies. The collaborative spirit between scientists and engineers shapes daily activity at this research site.

Access to the research facility requires security clearance and advance scheduling through NASA administrative offices. Visitors should register well in advance and meet all safety requirements to gain entry.

The facility's measurement system captures real-time data on temperature, pressure, and airflow under extreme hypersonic conditions. These detailed readings help engineers identify problems that only appear at such high speeds.

Location: Santa Clara County

Inception: 1961

GPS coordinates: 37.41813,-122.06141

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:22