Most payloads are carried in four pressurised compartments in the central fuselage equipment bay, but they are also installed in the wing and cockpit.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967

One of two ER-2s operated by NASA as part of the Airborne Science Program.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967

A second ER-2 pilot driving a Dodge Charger chase car plays a crucial role by calling out the aircraft;s descent rate and proximity to the ground to the flying pilot over the radio.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967

The taildragger configuration and large wingspan means the ER-2 is challenging to fly. After lift-off, the pilot holds the aircraft level for a couple of seconds before pulling into a 45° climb.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967

Before each mission an ER-2 pilot spends an hour in life support getting suited up and pre-breathing 100% pure oxygen. Life support personnel assist the pilot to the aircraft; there are about 13 connections the technicians will use to strap them in.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967

The ER-2 is a modular aircraft, with payloads installed and removed from the fuselage bay and wing pods as research requirements change over time.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967

The ER-2s are responsible for testing prototypes of sensors which will go into space; here ER-2 N809NA prepares to fly the Multiple Altimeter Beam Experimental Lidar on a test flight.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967

A wide variety of science instruments have been carried by the ER-2s. Here technicians download collected data; the aircraft also have instrumentation and video transmission capabilities.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967

Pitot Tom Ryan during a mission. The bulky spacesuit and helmet restrict the ER-2 pilot's movement.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Lockheed U-2R - СШАUSA - 1967