The letter “ER” in ER-2 stands for “Earth Resources”, and the ER-2 is tasked with collecting data about the Earth’s resources, celestial observations, atmospheric chemistry and dynamics, and oceanic processes. Also, the ER-2 carries out electronic sensor research and development, satellite calibration, and satellite data validation.

This month, one of the U-2R/S aircraft built as TR-1As (serial number 80-1069) was flown to Edwards AFB for the eventual display at the Air Force Flight Test Center (AFFTC) museum, and a number of parts are slated to be taken from this aircraft by NASA to keep the two ER-2s flying.

https://dragonladytoday.com/2024/08/17/keep-the-u-2-by-downsizing-the-o…