Above right: Members of NY-406, Fort Drum Composite Squadron of Civil Air Patrol view the total solar eclipse April 8 at Fort Drum. Above left: A Civil Air Patrol member records data for scientific observation and research to assist NASA. (Civil Air Patrol Photos by 2nd Lt. Victoria Anderson)
Local Civil Air Patrol cadets assist NASA
with gathering research data during eclipse
Cadet 1st Lt. Sarah Anderson
Cadet Commander
FORT DRUM, N.Y. (April 15, 2024) – Cadets and senior members of NY-406, Fort Drum Composite Squadron of Civil Air Patrol assisted by gathering data for scientific observation and research under NASA during the total solar eclipse April 8 as the path of 100 percent totality darkened the skies above Fort Drum.
According to communication from the New York Wing aerospace education officer, the mission was labeled “the largest single day mission in CAP history.” It is estimated that throughout the Northern Hemisphere, 284 squadrons collected data and monitored weather patterns along the path of the solar eclipse to track data in support of the NASA mission.
Cadets range in age from 12 to 21. As a part of their aerospace education, they collected data including measuring wind speed, air pressure, temperature, radio frequency distortion, cloud volume / formation / coverage, and other visible observations of the total solar eclipse.
In true military fashion, the cadets were given a safety briefing before the event to ensure they took proper caution to the emergencies that could arise during this scientific event. Furthermore, the cadets prepared for this mission by completing courses including CAP’s Introductory Communication User Training where they learned how to properly operate handheld VHF radios.
Civil Air Patrol is the auxiliary of the United States Air Force, which includes cadet programs for youths. While it includes learning how the military operates, this program does not require military enlistment or future service after joining the program.
Civil Air Patrol has three main missions: Cadet Programs, Emergency Services, and Aerospace Education. Civil Air Patrol includes opportunities for senior members to assist with the growth and development of cadets and to serve their local communities through their emergency services and aerospace education opportunities.
Recent CAP missions include assisting the rescue efforts during the Maui fires, support after national disasters, and search and rescue missions.
For more information about Civil Air Patrol, visit gocivilairpatrol.com. You also may visit your local squadron at 19945 MSR Tampa, Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield, Fort Drum, from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, or contact us at NY406Info@gmail.com.