McDonnell Douglas DC-8-70 (N817NA)

I believe the correct designation is a DC-8-72 (not a dash70). It is operated by NASA as an Airborne Science platform.
Beautiful picture.

Beauty

This is the short-body, original DC-8 design with apparent CF6-36 re-engine update.
Basically, a very overpowered aircraft; just like all pilots want in an airplane.

OK, I am officially WAAAAAAY green w/envy. What a FABULOUS catch and an equally FABULOUS set of clicks of it. Ten stars and they aren't enough .... Simply SUPERB photography!! I'll never attain your level of photo expertise but I sure as h-ll will keep trying. (Tip of my cap and a low bow ....)

I won't debate you, RW, but there are only a very limited number of ultra-premier photogs that contribute to FA and you, sir, are one. Every December, we meet to select the best FA photogs and there are a few who are virtually automatic choices now. You are one. Your pic quality is absolutely beyond excellent; your shots have fabulous variety (meaning not just an airplane in an empty sky which any nine year old can click), lots of varied visual angles, airborne aircraft (meaning not just sitting motionless on asphalt or concrete), etc. And it sure doesn't hurt that KSAT gets such a tremendous variety of airlines and aviation agencies. But mostly it's the unexcelled quality of the photos. Please just keep 'em comin', RW. Huge fans here. (Wavin' our caps ...)