NASA photographer Jim Ross recently captured stunning images from an F-18 aircraft over Washington, D.C. This flight was part of a special flyover to celebrate America's 250th birthday.
Documenting History from Above
NASA flight photographers get a unique view of the agency's missions. They document important research and give the public a close look at the work happening behind the scenes.
Jim Ross, a photographer at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center, flew over Washington during the Fourth of July celebration. He was there to document a NASA flyover marking America's 250th birthday. Ross has photographed many exciting NASA moments, including early SR-71 flights and the delivery of Space Shuttle Endeavour to Los Angeles. He also covered the first flights of NASA's X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft.
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Start Your News DetoxRoss shared his surprise about the experience. He said he grew up in a small town in Montana and never imagined flying in an F-18 over the National Mall. He has been documenting history for almost 37 years, enjoying the chance to capture flights and launches.
Ross started his aviation photography career in 1989 at NASA Armstrong. He became the photo lead in 1997 and still holds that position.
Deep Dive & References
Freedom 250 Flyover Gallery - NASA, 2026
