A-12 Spyplane Panorama

A-12 Spyplane Panorama, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

I couldn't stop taking pictures of this aircraft. I don't know if it's the shape and size that attracts me or if it's because I have read so much about it and appreciate it for the amazing thing that it is.

The prototype first flew in April of 1962 yet it still holds several world records for speed and altitude. Everything about this aircraft was revolutionary. Flying at more than 2,000 mph and at altitudes as high as 90,000 ft, its pilots could see the curvature of the earth and out-run missiles launched at it. It's cameras had incredible resolution.

Built almost entirely of titanium to endure the heat of friction generated at Mach 3+ speeds, parts of the aircrafts skin would reach 1,200 degrees. It's twin engines spat out white-hot 3,400 degree exhaust plumes into the super cold air 17 miles above the earth's surface. This unprecedented propulsive power sped the Blackbird at an unbelievable two-thirds of a mile a second.

This was the first stealthy aircraft ever built. It's radar cross section was 100 times smaller than the US Navy's F-14 Tomcat fighter built a decade later.

RA-5C Vigilante

RA-5C Vigilante, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

Vietnam era reconnaissance aircraft photographed on the flight deck of the USS Midway in San Diego, California. It was a beautiful, cool and sunny day. The clouds were particularly dramatic and made a perfect background in addtion to the skyline.

A-12 Trainer

A-12 Trainer, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

This is the only 2 seat version of the A-12 spy plane ever built. Operated by the CIA, this aircraft was the predecessor to the SR-71 Blackbird. Only one of 2 Blackbirds not actually painted black. This aircraft is bare metal with the exception of the nose and twin tails. Cloaked in absolute secrecy for most of it's operational life, it's good that the public can see this amazing aircraft now.

F-86 Sabre

F-86 Sabre, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

This spit polish F-86 was spectacular and quite difficult to photograph without becoming part of the image. I've visited the Chino Planes of Fame museum many times but have never seen this aircraft before. I think it may have been on a short term loan. It would be amazing to see it fly!

Lockheed P-38J Lightning

Lockheed P-38J Lightning, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

World War II's Pacific theater's premiere fighter the Lockheed P-38J Lightning.

Ohare walkway to Terminal One [Explored]

Ohare walkway to Terminal One. This walkway is located under one of the active runways at Ohare and is used to get from ground transportation to United's terminal one.

This is a 3 exposure HDR shot hand held. I fully expected security to come running over when I took my camera out of my bag and began shooting. 

Ohare walkway to Terminal One, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

Encounters

Encounters, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

This resturant in the Los Angeles international airport looks like a place Austin Powers would hang out in. Cool retro architecture.

RA-5C Vigilante

RA-5C Vigilante, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

Vietnam era reconnaissance aircraft

A-4 Skyhawk and Kathy

Kathy with a Douglas Aircraft A-4 Skyhawk U.S. Navy attack aircraft.

A-4 Skyhawk and Kathy

Lucky Lady II

Boeing B-50 Bomber, the Lucky Lady II was the first aircraft to fly around the world non-stop. They utilized the then just developed technology of air-to-air refueling. I'm not sure where the Planes of Fame Museum aquired the aircraft. I do know I have seen the rear section against a hanger wall but I've never seen the wings which must be huge!

Lucky Lady II