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4.0 Flying the Mission
4.1 Pre Engine Start
Take a picture of the tail number of the aircraft.
Brief the pilot and observer on missions details; altitude, ground speed, target location(s)
and type. Agree on how you will direct the aircraft once in the target area.
Ask for an "in case of emergency" briefing in the event the pilot has not already done so.
If the flight is to be over water, ensure the briefing includes ditching instructions and that
you, the pilot and observer crew are wearing approved life vests.
Turn on the Garmin eTrex GPS. Place it where it will have a clear view of the sky. It may
be placed on the dash board providing it does not obscure the view of the pilot or
observer. Another good location is to suspend it under the rear window. After a few
minutes, confirm the unit has locked onto the satellite network. If the track log was not
erased during the pre-mission check, do it now!
Note: the aircraft needs to be outside of a metal hanger in order for the GPS receivers to
function correctly.
Remove the lens cap. Store it somewhere where it will not blow around the cockpit.
Turn on the camera. After a minute or so, verify that the GP-1 GPS is locked onto the
satellite network. Point the camera out the photo window and take a picture. Verify that
the photo is sharp, properly exposed and that the GPS data has been included in the
photo. See section 1.5 above for details.
If the Multi Function Timer Remote Control will be used during the mission, connect it to
the GP-1-GPS. Turn it on and confirm proper programming. Point the camera out the
photo window and activate the Timer Remote Control (push "start") and verify it takes
multiple photos at the correct time interval. Press stop to quit taking photos. See section
1.7 above for details.
4.2 Flight Segment
Tell the pilot you are ready for engine start.
Once the engine is running, make sure your can talk to the pilot and observer using the
intercom. If not, do not proceed until this is resolved. You must be able to talk to the pilot
in order to give steering directions once in the target area.
Once in the target area:
Locate the target(s)
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