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Lockheed SR-71 "Blackbird"

Lockheed SR-71 "Blackbird" is a long-range, Mach 3+ strategic reconnaissance aircraft that was developed as a black project from the Lockheed A-12.Created by: PICRYLDated: 2018
Lockheed SR-71B
The SR-71 carried many nicknames like the "Habu," "SR," "Lady in Black," and "Sled;" but most of us know the SR-71 as the "Blackbird." The SR-71 was developed as a long-range strategic reconnaissance aircraft capable of flying at speeds over Mach 3.2 and at 85,000 feet. The first SR-71 to enter service was delivered in 1966 and retired in 1990. The USAF kept a few SR-71s in operation up until 1998, after a few were brought back to service in 1995. NASA's also flew the SR-71 from 1991 until its final flight in October 1999.
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IR-100 EXHIBIT MATERIAL showing an SR-71 Blackbird in flight

IR-100 EXHIBIT MATERIAL showing an SR-71 Blackbird in flight

The original finding aid described this as: Capture Date: 8/24/1977 Photographer: DONALD HUEBLER Keywords: 1977_03262.jpg c1977_03200s Larsen Scan Photographs Relating to Agency Activities, Facilities and Personnel

Lockheed YF-12 Blackbird Model in the 10- by 10-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel

Lockheed YF-12 Blackbird Model in the 10- by 10-Foot Supersonic Wind T...

Robert Cubbison examines a model of the Lockheed YF-12 Blackbird in the test section of the 10- by 10-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Cente... more

During the 1981 Air Fair, this SR-71 Blackbird aircraft flies over the base

During the 1981 Air Fair, this SR-71 Blackbird aircraft flies over the...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Wright-Patterson Air Force Base State: Ohio (OH) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released... more

A left side view of the SR-71 Blackbird aircraft on display

A left side view of the SR-71 Blackbird aircraft on display

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A view of high-pressure suits of SR-71 Blackbird aircraft pilots, hanging in a dressing room

A view of high-pressure suits of SR-71 Blackbird aircraft pilots, hang...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Airmen assist LTC Bob Crowder, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, put on his high-pressure suit. LTC Crowder is a pilot of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft which will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

Airmen assist LTC Bob Crowder, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance W...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in flight. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft during testing

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in flight. The aircraft, from th...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Airmen assist pilots aboard an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

Airmen assist pilots aboard an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, from the 9th ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, flanked by a T-38 Talon aircraft. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, was refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, flanked by a T-38 Talon aircraf...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Ranzeno Oates Release Status: Re... more

A left rear view of a parked SR-71 Blackbird aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

A left rear view of a parked SR-71 Blackbird aircraft from the 9th Str...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Airmen assist LTC Bob Crowder, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, put on his high-pressure suit. LTC Crowder will fly an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft which will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft during testing

Airmen assist LTC Bob Crowder, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance W...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in flight. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft during testing

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in flight. The aircraft, from th...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Airmen assist LTC Bob Crowder, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, put on his high-pressure suit. LTC Crowder will fly an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft which will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft during testing

Airmen assist LTC Bob Crowder, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance W...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

SSGT Jack Lloyd checks a high-pressure suit for an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft pilot. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

SSGT Jack Lloyd checks a high-pressure suit for an SR-71 Blackbird air...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Right side view of a KC-10 Extender aircraft refueling an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in flight during testing. The Extender, silhouetted against the sunset horizon, is from the 78th Air Refueling Squadron, and the Blackbird, the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

Right side view of a KC-10 Extender aircraft refueling an SR-71 Blackb...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, taking off. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnai...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Pilots from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing are aboard a vehicle to be transported to a parked SR-71 Blackbird aircraft. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

Pilots from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing are aboard a vehicle...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Pilots from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing sit in the cockpit of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft prior to flight. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft while in flight during testing

Pilots from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing sit in the cockpit o...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, taxiing out of a hangar. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reco...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft taxiing along the flightline. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, was refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft taxiing along the flightline. Th...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Ranzeno Oates Release Status: Re... more

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in-flight during testing. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, is seen from the refueling boom operator's section

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in-flight during testing. Th...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: STAFF SGT. Ranzeno Oates Release Stat... more

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft during testing

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft from the 9...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft as airmen assist pilot MAJ Barry C. MacKean debark the aircraft. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, was refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft as airmen assist pilot MAJ B...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

SGT Horton assists an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft pilot in an altitude chamber as another technician mans the chamber's control panel. The pilot, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, is undergoing training

SGT Horton assists an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft pilot in an altitude ch...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, taking off. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnai...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Pilots, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, are being transported to a parked SR-71 Blackbird aircraft. The aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

Pilots, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, are being transpor...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Crew SSGT David L. Hansen directs an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft out of a hangar. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

Crew SSGT David L. Hansen directs an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft out of a...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft approaching a KC-10 Extender aircraft for in-flight refueling during testing. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, is seen from the refueling boom operator's section

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft approaching a KC-10 Extender...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Ranzeno Oates Release Status: Re... more

SSGT Horton assists an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft pilot in an altitude chamber during training. The pilot is assigned to the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

SSGT Horton assists an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft pilot in an altitude c...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A right side view of a KC-10 Extender aircraft refueling an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in-flight during testing. The Extender, silhouetted against the sunset horizon, is from the 78th Air Refueling Squadron, and the Blackbird, the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

A right side view of a KC-10 Extender aircraft refueling an SR-71 Blac...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: STAFF SGT. Bill Thompson Release Stat... more

Right side view of a KC-10 Extender aircraft refueling an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in flight during testing. The Extender, silhouetted against the sunset horizon, is from the 78th Air Refueling Squadron, and the Blackbird, the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

Right side view of a KC-10 Extender aircraft refueling an SR-71 Blackb...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

SR-71 Blackbird aircraft pilots, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, discuss flight details during breakfast. Their aircraft will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

SR-71 Blackbird aircraft pilots, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft taxiing along the flightline. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, was refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft taxiing along the flightline. Th...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Ranzeno Oates Release Status: Re... more

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in flight. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, will be refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft during testing

A view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft in flight. The aircraft, from th...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft as airmen assist a pilot debarking the aircraft. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, was refueled by a KC-10 Extender aircraft in flight during testing

Front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft as airmen assist a pilot deb...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

An air-to-air front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft being hooked up with a KC-10 Extender aircraft for refueling during testing. The aircraft, from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, is seen from the refueling boom operator's section

An air-to-air front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft being hooked u...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Ranzeno Oates Release Status: Re... more

An air-to-air left rear view of an SR-71 aircraft

An air-to-air left rear view of an SR-71 aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air right rear view of an SR-71A aircraft

An air-to-air right rear view of an SR-71A aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71A aircraft

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71A aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71A Black Bird aircraft

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71A Black Bird aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71A aircraft being refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71A aircraft being refueled by a...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71A aircraft

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71A aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air front view of an SR-71 aircraft

An air-to-air front view of an SR-71 aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

LT. COL. Raymond E. Yeilding, pilot, sits in his flight suit prior to his recordbreaking, coast-to-coast flight in an SR-71 aircraft. The plane, which is being delivered to the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. for permanent display, made the flight in 68 minutes. Yeilding was assisted by LT. COL. Joseph T. Vida, reconnaissance officer, who is assigned to Detachment 6, 2762nd Logisitics Squadron along with Yeilding

LT. COL. Raymond E. Yeilding, pilot, sits in his flight suit prior to ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Palmdale State: California (CA) Country: US Scene Camera Operator: STAFF SGT. Scott P. Stewart Release Status: Released to Public Combined Milit... more

Artwork: "SR-71 Blackbird" Artist: Charles Shealy

Artwork: "SR-71 Blackbird" Artist: Charles Shealy

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

AN air-to-air right side view of an A-12 Blackbird aircraft carrying a D-21 drone

AN air-to-air right side view of an A-12 Blackbird aircraft carrying a...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

The crew of an SR-71 Blackbird disembarks the aircraft after flying its 1,000th sortie

The crew of an SR-71 Blackbird disembarks the aircraft after flying it...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

An air-to-air left rear view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft during its 1,000th sortie

An air-to-air left rear view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft during its...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

An air-to-air right top view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft during its 1,000th sortie

An air-to-air right top view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft during its...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft during its 1,000th sortie

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft during its...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

A direct front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft after landing from its 1,000th sortie

A direct front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft after landing from ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

An air-to-air right top view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft during its 1,000th sortie

An air-to-air right top view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft during its...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

Fred Cavanaugh, Advanced Development Plan Program manager for the SR-71 Blackbird, presents a photo of the aircraft to COL Terry and COL Baker of the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. The presentation was made at the completion of the SR-71's 1,000th sortie

Fred Cavanaugh, Advanced Development Plan Program manager for the SR-7...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

An air-to-air left underside view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft during its 1,000th sortie

An air-to-air left underside view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft durin...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Re... more

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strateg...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released ... more

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strate...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released ... more

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strateg...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released ... more

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strate...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released ... more

A front view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing landing. The aircraft is silhouetted against the sunset

A front view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissanc...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released ... more

An air-to-air underside side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

An air-to-air underside side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th St...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released ... more

A left side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing landing. The aircraft is silhouetted against the sunset

A left side view of an SR-71 aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnais...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released ... more

Artwork: "SR-71: First Operational Mission" Artist: Hal McCormick

Artwork: "SR-71: First Operational Mission" Artist: Hal McCormick

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Artwork: "SR-71" Artist: Hazel Olson

Artwork: "SR-71" Artist: Hazel Olson

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A KC-10A Extender, aircraft and an SR-71 aircraft are silhouetted by the setting sun during in-flight refueling operations

A KC-10A Extender, aircraft and an SR-71 aircraft are silhouetted by t...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Bill Thompson Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A left front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft piloted by Undersecretary of the Air Force Edward C. Aldrich, as he taxies it out to the runway before takeoff

A left front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft piloted by Undersecre...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: MSGT Paul N. Hayahsi Release Status: ... more

A ground crewman marshalls an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, being piloted by Undersecretary of the Air Force Edward C. Aldrich, into its parking position after a flight

A ground crewman marshalls an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft, being piloted ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: MSGT Paul N. Hayahsi Release Status: ... more

The crew of an SR-71A aircraft (background) walks away from the flight line upon arrival

The crew of an SR-71A aircraft (background) walks away from the flight...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A front view of an SR-71A aircraft being directed into the runway by a ground crewman prior to take off

A front view of an SR-71A aircraft being directed into the runway by a...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A ground-to-air left rear view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft taking off from a fog-shrouded runway. The SR-71 is flown by Det. 4, 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, 3rd Air Force, RAF Mildenhall

A ground-to-air left rear view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft taking o...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Jose Lopez Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photo... more

A front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft being prepared for takeoff. The SR-71 is flown by Det. 4, 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, 3rd Air Force, RAF Mildenhall

A front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft being prepared for takeoff...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Jose Lopez Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photo... more

A ground-to-air left rear view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft taking off from a fog-shrouded runway. The SR-71 is flown by Det. 4, 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, 3rd Air Force, RAF Mildenhall

A ground-to-air left rear view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft taking o...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Jose Lopez Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photo... more

A right side view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft on a fog-shrouded runway. The SR-71 is flown by Det. 4, 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, 3rd Air Force, RAF Mildenhall

A right side view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft on a fog-shrouded run...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Jose Lopez Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photo... more

A front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft being prepared for takeoff. The SR-71 is flown by Det. 4, 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, 3rd Air Force, RAF Mildenhall

A front view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft being prepared for takeoff...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Jose Lopez Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photo... more

A left side view of an SR-71 aircraft moving toward a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft for inflight refueling. The SR-71 is from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

A left side view of an SR-71 aircraft moving toward a KC-135 Stratotan...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Ken Hackman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A right side view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft on a fog-shrouded runway. The SR-71 is flown by Det. 4, 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, 3rd Air Force, RAF Mildenhall

A right side view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft on a fog-shrouded run...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Jose Lopez Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photo... more

Artwork: "SR-71: Eye in the Sky" Artist: Dennis Linn, US Air Force Art Collection

Artwork: "SR-71: Eye in the Sky" Artist: Dennis Linn, US Air Force Art...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Artwork: "Blackbird-SR-71" Artist: Michel Allaire, USAF Art Collection

Artwork: "Blackbird-SR-71" Artist: Michel Allaire, USAF Art Collection

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Artwork: "SR-71 Preflighted, Beale AFB, CA-1983" Artist: Mark Eriksen, USAF Art Collection

Artwork: "SR-71 Preflighted, Beale AFB, CA-1983" Artist: Mark Eriksen,...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A front view of an SR-71 aircraft undergoing maintenance

A front view of an SR-71 aircraft undergoing maintenance

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Lockheed Military Airplane, Co. Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Artwork: "SR-71" Artist: Bob Bausch, USAF Art Collection

Artwork: "SR-71" Artist: Bob Bausch, USAF Art Collection

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A US Air Force SR-71A Blackbird aircraft executes a steep climb during Air Fete '84

A US Air Force SR-71A Blackbird aircraft executes a steep climb during...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Raf Mildenhall State: Suffolk Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Jose Lopez Jr. Release Status: Released to Publ... more

A US Air Force SR-71A Blackbird aircraft in flight during Air Fete '84

A US Air Force SR-71A Blackbird aircraft in flight during Air Fete '84

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Raf Mildenhall State: Suffolk Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Jose Lopez Jr. Release Status: Released to Publ... more

A front view of an SR-71A aircraft on the flight line

A front view of an SR-71A aircraft on the flight line

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Michael Haggerty Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71B aircraft

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71B aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Michael Haggerty Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air front view of an SR-71A aircraft

An air-to-air front view of an SR-71A aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Michael Haggerty Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Air-to-air overhead view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft from the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing

Air-to-air overhead view of an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft from the 9th S...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT. Michael Haggerty Release Status: Released to Public Combine... more

A front view of an SR-71A aircraft on the flight line

A front view of an SR-71A aircraft on the flight line

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Michael Haggerty Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71B aircraft

An air-to-air right side view of an SR-71B aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Michael Haggerty Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71B aircraft

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71B aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Michael Haggerty Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71B aircraft

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71B aircraft

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Michael Haggerty Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 strategic reconnaissance aircraft. The SR-71 is unofficially known as the "Blackbird."

An air-to-air left side view of an SR-71 strategic reconnaissance airc...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An SR-71 strategic reconnaissance aircraft moves down the runway. The SR-71 is unofficially known as the "Bluebird."

An SR-71 strategic reconnaissance aircraft moves down the runway. The ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An underside front view of an SR-71 strategic reconnaissance aircraft in flight. The SR-71 is unofficially known as the "Blackbird."

An underside front view of an SR-71 strategic reconnaissance aircraft ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An SR-71 aircraft flies over in honor of Brigadier General Jesse S. Hocker, former commander of the 14th Air Division, during his retirement ceremony

An SR-71 aircraft flies over in honor of Brigadier General Jesse S. Ho...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Mark Zalewski Release Status: Re... more

An SR-71 Black Bird reconnaissance aircraft, with afterburner on, flies overhead. Exact Date Shot Unknown

An SR-71 Black Bird reconnaissance aircraft, with afterburner on, flie...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Michael Haggerty Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Captain William D. Stanford helps Craig Nelson strap into an SR-71 Blackbird aircraft. Nelson, who portrays Colonel Sarnac on the TV series "Call to Glory, and a film crew are preparing to shoot episodes depict the early SR-71 flights

Captain William D. Stanford helps Craig Nelson strap into an SR-71 Bla...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: AIC Joe Castellino Release Status: Re... more

Captain William D. Stanford helps Craig Nelson with the controls on his space suit. Nelson, who portrays Colonel Sarnac on the TV series "Call to Glory, and a film crew are preparing to shoot episodes depict the early SR-71 Blackbird flights

Captain William D. Stanford helps Craig Nelson with the controls on hi...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: AIC Joe Castellino Release Status: Re... more

Captain William D. Stanford explains a space suit to Craig Nelson who portrays Colonel Sarnac on the TV series "Call to Glory." The production crew filmed several episodes here depicting the early SR-71 Blackbird flights

Captain William D. Stanford explains a space suit to Craig Nelson who ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Beale Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: AIC Joe Castellino Release Status: Re... more

Representative Beverly B. Byron, Democrat-Maryland, poses with a pilot in front of an SR-71 aircraft after a demonstration flight. They are wearing flight suits designed especially for the SR-71

Representative Beverly B. Byron, Democrat-Maryland, poses with a pilot...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Castle Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to ... more

A right side view of an SR-71B aircraft taking off during a test flight while carrying Representative Beverly B. Byron, Democrat-Maryland

A right side view of an SR-71B aircraft taking off during a test fligh...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Castle Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to ... more