
Several projects under NASA's Advanced Air Mobility or AAM mission are working on different elements to help make AAM a reality in emergency operations. This concept graphic shows how a future AAM vehicle could aid in disaster response.

L3Harris FVR90 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) lifts off from the Monterey Bay Academy Airport near Watsonville, California, during the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) Shakedown Test.

Joshua Kaurich, front, and Yasmin Arbab, works with the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) Portable Airspace Management System (PAMS) case at the Monterey Bay Academy Airport near Watsonville, California.

Greg Costedoat, front-right frame, Stefan Blandin, and Charles Walker, left, with the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) Portable Airspace Management System (PAMS) case with the equipment stowed at the Monterey Bay Academy Airport near Watsonville, California.

L3Harris FVR90 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) lifts off from the Monterey Bay Academy Airport near Watsonville, California, during the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) Shakedown Test as NASA researchers observe in the background.

L3Harris FVR90 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) lifts off from the Monterey Bay Academy Airport near Watsonville, California, during the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) Shakedown Test as NASA researchers observe in the background.

The NASA Langley Alta-X Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) lifts off with a weather payload from the Monterey Bay Academy Airport near Watsonville, California, during the Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) Shakedown Test.

Lauren Claudatos, researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, poses for a portrait, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A computer displays the flight path of a FreeFly Systems Alta X drone during a flight as part of STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, test activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Members of the STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, team are seen during a meeting before starting activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Jonas Jonsson, pilot in command for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen during STEReO test activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Joey Mercer, principle investigator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen making a radio call during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Lauren Claudatos, researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen during simulated drone operations during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A communications antenna that is part of the STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, ad-hoc network is seen during STEReO test activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021, as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Lauren Claudatos, researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen during simulated drone operations during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A tablet displaying a version of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management System (UTM) is seen during STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Joey Mercer, principle investigator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, poses for a portrait, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Bill McCarthy, software engineer and research laptop operator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen as the STEReO teams works through scenarios, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, team members watch as a Cal Fire S2-T airtanker drops water on a simulated wildfire, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Lauren Claudatos, researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen during simulated drone operations during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Lauren Claudatos, researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen during simulated drone operations during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Joey Mercer, principle investigator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen making a radio call during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Lauren Claudatos, researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen during simulated drone operations during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Lauren Claudatos, researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen during simulated drone operations during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team checks his firearm as the team prepares for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team break through a barricade during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team talks looks through the scope of his rifle as he prepares for the next tactical challenge during the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepares to compete in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team take aim at targets during the sharpshooter tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team compete in the citizen rescue tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team waits for the signal from the judge and then takes aim to shoot at a target with a handgun during one of the tactical challenges at the 35th Annual SWAT Round-up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

The young sons of one of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team members prepare to watch their father compete in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, and featured five different competition categories. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with 60 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team scales over a wall during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

The family of one of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team members prepare to watch the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, and featured five different competition categories. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with 60 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

The family of one of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team members watches the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. Kennedy’s ERT members are working their way along a rope. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, and featured five different competition categories. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with 60 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team shoot at targets using handguns during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team works his way along a rope above water during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepares to compete in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team check their firearms as they prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team compete in the citizen rescue tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team compete in the citizen rescue tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team check their firearms as they prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team break through a barricade and run through to the other side during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. SWAT Roundup judges review procedures with Kennedy ERT members. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team talks with his wife during a break between tactical challenges during the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team works his way along a rope above water during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team check their firearms before competing in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Special pellets, rather than real bullets, are used during the competition. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team switches position as he works his way along a rope above water during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepares to compete in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team run during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team takes aim at a target during the sharpshooter tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team take a break between tactical challenges during the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team compete in the citizen rescue tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

The young sons of one of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team members prepare to watch their father compete in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, and featured five different competition categories. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with 60 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team work their way along a rope above water during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team check their firearms before competing in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Special pellets, rather than real bullets, are used during the competition. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team check their firearms before competing in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Special pellets, rather than real bullets, are used during the competition. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepare to break through a barricade during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team run during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepare to break through a barricade during one of the tactical challenges at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepares to compete in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team compete in the citizen rescue tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team check their firearms before competing in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Special pellets, rather than real bullets, are used during the competition. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepares to compete in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepares to compete in the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Special pellets, rather than real bullets, are used during the competition. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team gather to prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team is with his daughter at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Members of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team prepare for the next tactical challenge at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, 2019, and featured five different tactical challenges. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with more than 50 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

A member of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Emergency Response Team is with his wife and children at the 37th Annual SWAT Round-Up International at the Lawson Lamar Firearms and Tactical Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The competition was held Nov. 10 to 15, and featured five different competition categories. Kennedy's ERT members exchanged best practices and competed with 60 teams from the U.S. and around the world.

Zach Roberts, pilot computer operator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, left, and Bill McCarthy, software engineer and research laptop operator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, right, setup equipment for drone operations, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Jonas Jonsson, pilot in command for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen moving a FreeFly Systems Alta X drone following a flight during STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, test activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Bryan Petty, autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Langley Research Center, left, and Robert McSwain, co-principle investigator and autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Langley Research Center, right, are seen during simulated drone operations as part of STEReO field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Robert McSwain, co-principle investigator and autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Langley Research Center, left, and Bryan Petty, autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Langley Research Center, right, are seen during simulated drone operations as part of STEReO field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Zach Roberts, pilot computer operator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, left, and Jonas Jonsson, pilot in command for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, right, complete pre-flight checks on a FreeFly Systems Alta X drone, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Bryan Petty, autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Langley Research Center, left, and Robert McSwain, co-principle investigator and autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Langley Research Center, right, are seen during simulated drone operations as part of STEReO field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Jonas Jonsson, pilot in command for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen moving a FreeFly Systems Alta X drone following a flight during STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, test activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Josh Baculi, autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, left, and Anjan Chakrabarty, autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, right, are seen during simulated drone operations as part of STEReO field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Josh Baculi, autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, makes a radio call during simulated drone operations as part of STEReO field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Joey Mercer, principle investigator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, points to a location on a tablet running a version of theUnmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management System (UTM) during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Josh Baculi, autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, makes a radio call during simulated drone operations as part of STEReO field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Joey Mercer, principle investigator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center speaks with Richard Barhydt, station director of the U.S. Forest Service's Pacific Southwest Research Station and Huy Tran, director of aeronautics at NASA's Ames Research Center, during STEReO test activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Bill McCarthy, software engineer and research laptop operator for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, is seen during simulated drone operations as part of STEReO field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Josh Baculi, autonomy researcher for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, right, speaks with Huy Tran, director of aeronautics at NASA's Ames Research Center, during STEReO field testing, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Jonas Jonsson, pilot in command for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, performs pre-flight checks on a FreeFly Systems Alta X drone, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A FreeFly Systems Alta X drone is seen in flight during STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, team members watch as a Cal Fire UH-1H Super Huey helicopter drops water on a simulated wildfire, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, team members watch as a Cal Fire UH-1H Super Huey helicopter drops water on a simulated wildfire, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A Cal Fire S2-T airtanker is seen above the STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, ad-hoc network hub as it drops water on a simulated wildfire, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Jonas Jonsson, pilot in command for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, performs pre-flight checks on a FreeFly Systems Alta X drone, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A laptop displays the flight path of a FreeFly Systems Alta X drone during STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, field testing, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A FreeFly Systems Alta X drone is seen in flight during STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, test activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Jonas Jonsson, pilot in command for STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, at NASA's Ames Research Center, performs pre-flight checks on a FreeFly Systems Alta X drone, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A FreeFly Systems Alta X drone is seen in flight during STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, test activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A Cal Fire UH-1H Super Huey helicopter is seen in flight as a member of the STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project team watches, Tuesday, May 4, 2021, as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

A FreeFly Systems Alta X drone is seen in flight as part of STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, test activities, Tuesday, May 4, 2021 as Cal Fire conducts aerial fire fighting training exercises near Redding, California. STEReO, the Scalable Traffic Management for Emergency Response Operations project, led by NASA’s Ames Research Center, builds on NASA’s expertise in air traffic management, human factors research, and autonomous technology development to apply the agency’s work in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management, or UTM, to public safety uses. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)