Honeywell, Boeing and the University of Reading are collaborating on Project MIST, a research initiative funded by the Aerospace Technology Institute Programme. The project aims to develop an aircraft-based prototype sensor to better understand and mitigate climate impacts from contrails, which form when hot, humid jet engine exhaust mixes with cold, high-altitude air.
Named Mitigation of Contrail Impact via Novel Sensing Technologies, the three-year effort focuses on in-flight atmospheric sensing, particularly humidity measurements at cruising altitudes where temperatures can drop to -50°C or lower. Current instrumentation often fails to capture precise humidity and temperature data needed for accurate contrail forecasting and weather modeling.
The prototype humidity sensor is designed for integration onto aircraft, supporting validation of numerical weather prediction models and contrail-avoidance strategies. Boeing engineers are defining baseline aircraft requirements, while Honeywell leads sensor development. The technology must enable reliable operation in low-humidity conditions, with minimal maintenance and rapid data transfer for real-time use.
Recent research suggests contrails may contribute half of aviation’s climate warming, making improved sensing critical for non-CO2 emissions reduction.