Building on knowledge gained from the 2023 and 2024 solar eclipse missions, Civil Air Patrol is partnering with NASA for a third straight year to gather scientific information across the U.S.
The 2025 Aviation Weather Mission will engage members in a nationwide data collection effort to help NASA scientists better understand high-altitude humidity and its impact on contrail formation and aviation safety.
NASA aims to improve weather models and enhance aviation safety by studying how humidity affects aircraft icing and contrail persistence. CAP members will collect ground-based observations, which will be paired with satellite imagery from NASA’s GEO and NOAA-20 weather satellites to provide a unique perspective on atmospheric conditions.
“The 2025 Aviation Weather Mission is an incredible opportunity for Civil Air Patrol members to contribute to real-world scientific research while deepening their understanding of aerospace science,” said Capt. Shannon Babb, mission director. “This mission strengthens our partnership with NASA and inspires the next generation of aviators and scientists.
“By engaging in hands-on data collection, our cadets and senior members directly support advancements in aviation safety and weather research. It’s an exciting time for CAP and aerospace education’s future.”
The 2025 Aviation Weather Mission will require coordination at multiple levels:
● Squadron level: CAP team leaders will organize teams of six to 18 volunteers, ensuring they receive proper training and are prepared to collect data and photographs during at least two of the four observation dates.
● Wing and region level: CAP/NASA coordinators will promote the mission, facilitate multi-unit training opportunities, and help organize visits from NASA personnel.
● National level: The CAP 2025 Aviation Weather Mission staff will work directly with NASA to develop the mission plan, create training materials, coordinate data collection, and ensure participants are recognized for their contributions.
● Global level: NASA scientists will analyze CAP’s ground-based data alongside satellite imagery, comparing cloud observations from space and Earth to refine atmospheric models.
Each role within the team is essential to mission success. CAP members will take on such responsibilities as:
● Weather officer — Monitors humidity levels and atmospheric conditions.
● Flight tracker — Tracks aircraft movement and contrail development.
● Photographer — Captures images of contrails for NASA analysis.
● Orienteer — Ensures accurate location data for observations.
● Data manager — Organizes and transmits collected information.
All participants must complete mission-specific training before the observation dates:
● Primary dates (8 a.m.-noon local time):
April 12
May 10
● Alternate dates (8 a.m.-noon local time):
June 14
July 12
CAP cadets designed the official mission patch to commemorate the mission, unveiled in December. The patch symbolizes CAP’s dedication to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education and aerospace research, reinforcing the organization’s role in supporting NASA’s scientific objectives.
The 2025 Aviation Weather Mission highlights CAP’s commitment to aerospace education and real-world scientific exploration. Through this mission, CAP members will gain hands-on STEM experience, contribute to critical NASA research and play an active role in aviation safety advancements._____Capt. Roman VitanzaDirector of Public AffairsSouthwest Region
