Ep 12. Supersonic Spies

"NOVA: Supersonic Spies" is an episode in the 25th season of the groundbreaking television science series. This episode takes a look into one of the most secretive and iconic planes in American history - the SR-71 Blackbird. This supersonic spy plane was designed by Lockheed Martin in the 1960s and was in service until 1998.

The episode dives into the intense secrecy that surrounded the aircraft's development and use during the Cold War era. NOVA interviews several retired Air Force pilots who flew the Blackbird as part of their reconnaissance missions over enemy territory. They recount the remarkable abilities of the plane, including its unprecedented speed and altitude, which allowed it to outrun and outmaneuver any missile fired at it.

The show delves into the engineering and design challenges that were faced driving the need for an aircraft that could not only move at incredible speeds but remain nearly invisible to radar. The SR-71 was built with titanium, which was both lightweight and exceptionally strong while also being able to withstand the extreme temperatures generated by supersonic speeds.

NOVA interviews several engineers and scientists who shed light on some of the ground-breaking design and technology that the Blackbird used. They describe how the aircraft was created with a unique shape to help mitigate radar detection, and how they developed sophisticated systems of aligning the outer shell of the aircraft to handle huge temperature changes associated with supersonic flight.

One of the critical factors in the success of the Blackbird was the highly specialized training required by the pilots who would operate the plane. NOVA takes us on an unprecedented trip through the training, allowing viewers to witness the intense training that pilots had to endure to be able to fly high enough and fast enough to be successful on their top-secret missions.

Supersonic Spies takes us through several of the missions that the SR-71 flew to provide reconnaissance during the Cold War era. They go into the history of intelligence gathering, including tactical overflights of enemy territory and how imagery was used to uncover military plans and movements.

With a mixture of top-secret declassified material, stunning footage of the SR-71 in action, and interviews with former military personnel, the episode paints a vivid picture of the life of a spy pilot. It also provides insights into why the SR-71 played such a critical role in gathering information and maintaining peace during the Cold War years.

The episode concludes by looking at the legacy of the Blackbird and the implications that its design has had on aviation to this day. The SR-71 was undoubtedly a remarkable aircraft, with its unique shape and materials holding practical applications in modern aviation design. Not only did the Blackbird confirm the critical role that planes can play in gathering intelligence in times of conflict, it also paved the way for the engineering leaps that exist in the aviation industry today.

Overall, Supersonic Spies is a compelling NOVA episode that brings to life the Cold War era intelligence alliances between nations and the critical role that engineering and technology continue to play. The episode provides a comprehensive and engrossing look into the elusive world of the Blackbird, and the secrecy that came with flying it in the skies. It is a must-watch for plane enthusiasts and history buffs alike who want to learn more about a secretive and fascinating chapter in American aviation history.