 The FTF contained instruments to record and transmit research data in real-time to engineers in mission control at Dryden.One application of the FTF was testing heat-resistant tiles for use on the Space Shuttle, ensuring their bonding was sufficient at high speeds and evaluating their performance when exposed to moisture.The last of these missions flew on 31 January 1994, bringing the F-104's service with NASA to a close after more than 18,000 flights.