![Business jet sonic boom signature test.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2000-l-00030_business_jet_sonic_boom_test.jpg?w=1024)
![Mars Science Laboratory pressure model being tested.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2010-l-01025_mars_science_laboratory_pressure_model_test.jpg?w=1024)
![A supersonic vehicle model inside the 4-Foot wind tunnel.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/1998-l-00162_drag_reduction_tests_on_supersonic_transport_design.jpg?w=1024)
4-Foot Supersonic Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel
The Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel (UPWT) is equipped with asymmetric sliding-block-type nozzles for varying the ratio of nozzle throat to test section, thus providing continuous variation in Mach number.
Focus Areas and Capabilities
Learn more about the specifications and capabilities of this facility.
![Black and white photo of a technician preparing for a test in Section 2.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/lal_96460_x-15.jpg?w=1024)
Characteristics
The UPWT boasts a robust set of measurement tools and testing techniques for an enhanced understanding of complex fluid dynamics, as well as applied aero-dynamics research.
![1959 visit by the Mercury Seven astronauts to observe testing of the Mercury capsule.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/mercury7_upwt-2.jpg?w=1024)
Quick Facts
The UPWT has advanced testing capabilities, with an upgraded control system that integrates unique testing options to reduce cycle times.
![1956 test of the Bell X-2 in Test Section 2.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/lal_95504_bell_x-2.jpg?w=1024)
Data Acquisition
The existing data measurement processes provide credible methods of quantifying data quality through statistical quality control.
Supersonic UPWT 4-Foot Gallery
Contact Information
4-Foot Supersonic Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel
Facility Manager: Vic Tumwa
(757) 864-9551
NASA Langley Research Center
Hampton, VA 23666
(757) 864-1000
AETC Supersonic Facilities
NASA operates four Supersonic Facilities. The 10- by 10-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel, the 9- by 7-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel, the 8- by 6-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel and the 4-Foot Supersonic Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel.
Learn More About AETC Supersonic Facilities![1.79 percent scale model of a future concept supersonic aircraft built by The Boeing Company in the 8x6 wind tunnel.](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/8x6_2013_01177_full.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.
Learn 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)