![The Facility Aerodynamics Validation and Operational Research (FAVOR) model.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/process-improvement-gallery1.jpg?w=1024)
![The Facility Aerodynamics Validation and Operational Research (FAVOR) model.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/process-improvement-gallery2-1.jpg?w=1024)
![Facility Aerodynamics Validation and Operational Research model in wind tunnel](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/process-improvement-gallery4.jpg?w=1024)
Test Technology: Process Improvement
It is important to improve the accuracy and range of data that can be developed, but it is also important to assist researchers by finding new experiment methodology that can save time or generally increase the effectiveness of testing. This includes improving testing setups and processes by implementing new techniques and technologies.
Focus Areas and Capabilities
Learn more about the specifications and capabilities of this facility.
![The Facility Aerodynamics Validation and Operational Research (FAVOR) model and the team.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/process-improvement-gallery3.jpg?w=794)
Quick Facts
Process improvement targets these areas: Design of Experiments (DOE), Model prep and, Data processing.
![Photogrammetry testing of the Tension Cone Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/process-improvement-gallery5.jpg?w=1024)
Techniques
Since process improvement examines the methodology used for testing, the techniques are aimed more towards methods than towards particular instrumentation.
![Photogrammetry of the Supersonic Parachute used to land the Mars Curiosity Rover.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/process-improvement-gallery6.jpg?w=1024)
Capabilities
When process improvement techniques are applied, additional capabilities may be discovered which may in turn unlock additional techniques to further improve the testing process.
Process Improvement Gallery
AETC Test Technologies
Test Technology supports ATP by keeping NASA’s research test facilities and flight assets moving into the future.
As the world’s technologies continue to improve and research requirements become more demanding, Test Technology provides new and improved capabilities for measuring pressure, temperature, angle, strain, and air flow.
Read More About Test Technologies![Open-rotor Propulsion Rig, painted with Pressure-Sensitive Paint (PSP) and ready for testing.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pressure_gallery_1.jpg?w=1024)
AETC Ground Facilities
AETC sets the strategic direction for NASA’s versatile and comprehensive portfolio of ground test aeronautics research capabilities.
Among these assets are subsonic, transonic, supersonic, and hypersonic wind tunnels and propulsion test facilities at Ames Research Center, Glenn Research Center, and Langley Research Center.
Read More About AETC Ground Facilities![NASA Ames Research Center aerial from the NFAC 80-by-120-foot wind tunnel inlet vanes N221B with Power Substation North N225B, Office Trailers TR35A, TR35, and TR35C in forground looking west across center. The image was taken by Jonas Jonsson and Zachary Roberts, General Engineers with the Ames Aeronautics Projects Office, during a drone flight over the center.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/acd20-0075-003.jpg?w=1024)
AETC
Aerosciences Evaluation and Test Capabilities (AETC) Portfolio Office
The AETC Portfolio Office executes strategic efforts to preserve and enhance research and test capabilities for NASA’s world-class portfolio of National Wind Tunnel facilities.
Read More About AETC![On August 9, 2022 Glenn Research Center’s newest lobby renovation, the 10x10 Supersonic Wind Tunnel Facility, was celebrated with a ribbon cutting by Acting Center Director, Dr. James “Jimmy” Kenyon and AETC Portfolio Office Director, Dr. Ron Colantonio.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/grc-2022-c-05727.jpg?w=1024)