NASA’s modified Boeing 777 to become largest airborne research lab

The NASA 777 aircraft. PIC COURTESY/NASA

Most Boeing 777s spend their lives shuttling passengers. But one specific triple-seven just touched down at NASA's Langley Research Center in Virginia with a much loftier career path ahead.

After a year-long scientific makeover in Texas, the massive jet is back with NASA. Serving as the successor to the retired DC-8, this aircraft is set to become the largest and most capable research vessel in NASA's Earth Science fleet.

"The 777 will be the largest airborne research laboratory, collecting data to improve life on our home planet," said Derek Rutovic, program manager for the Airborne Science Program.

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