Blackbird

No aircraft in history operated globally in more hostile airspace or with such complete impunity than the SR-71 "Blackbird", the world's fastest jet-propelled aircraft. The Blackbird's performance and operational achievements placed it at the pinnacle of aviation technology developments during the Cold War.

This Blackbird accrued about 2,800 hours of flight time during 24 years of active service with the U.S. Air Force. On its last flight, March 6, 1990, Lt. Col. Ed Yielding and Lt. Col. Joseph Vida set a speed record by flying from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., in 1 hour, 4 minutes, and 20 seconds, averaging 3,418 kilometers (2,124 miles) per hour. At the flight's conclusion, they landed at Washington-Dulles International Airport and turned the airplane over to the Smithsonian. From The Smithsonian

Night Landing

- Had an a unique opportunity tonight to photograph U.S. Navy F18 fighter jets practicing night carrier landings at Naval Auxiliary Landing Field (NALF) Fentress in Chesapeake Virginia. While the pictures of streaking jets at night are cool, it was the experience that was amazing. Standing just yards away you could really feel the power of these jets. The roar of the engines, rushing air, and the smell of jet fuel and burnt rubber from the landing gear making contact with the runway can never be captured by a still photograph. Thanks to Matt for taking me out there and to Amber for hooking me up with Matt. I'm still pumped. Canon 7D, 4 seconds @ f/2.8, ISO 1600, 50mm focal length mounted on a tripod. Check out a few more pictures on my Picasa web album.