https://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/nasa-tests-the-fa-18e
A top view shows the wing loading test configuration of a F/A-18E from the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) in Patuxent River, Maryland. While the aircraft was in NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center Flight Loads Laboratory in Edwards, California, it underwent the center’s biggest load calibrations tests. That testing was needed before the aircraft could serve as a test vehicle for determining if it could safely manage maneuvers and proposed upgrades.