Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel

The Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel is a research facility at NASA Ames Research Center in Mountain View with three separate test sections. It can reach flow speeds ranging from subsonic Mach 0.2 to supersonic Mach 3.5 conditions.

The facility opened in 1955 to advance American aviation technology following concerns about international competition during World War II. It was developed as part of a national strategy to secure technical leadership in aeronautics.

Engineers and researchers from government agencies, private companies, and educational institutions collaborate here to advance aerospace knowledge. The facility draws professionals from around the world working on aircraft design and aerodynamic challenges.

Testing requires advance booking of approximately seven months, and the operation involves a team of over 100 specialized staff members. Contact the facility well ahead of time if you plan to use its services.

Four electric motors drive the wind systems and generate roughly 260,000 horsepower through independent test chambers. This tremendous power output allows the facility to achieve extremely high speeds in the test sections.

Location: Santa Clara County

Inception: 1955

Website: https://nasa.gov/centers/ames/orgs/aeronautics/windtunnels

GPS coordinates: 37.41692,-122.06047

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:06