TIL the CIA tested the SR-71 radar signature by mounting it to a pole in the desert (Area 51). It was removed daily just before the Soviet satellite passed above. But since a shadow was created on... - eviltoast
Check Out These Fascinating, Declassified Photos of The A-12 Oxcart RCS Tests Inside Area 51
theaviationist.com
Former Area 51 Special Projects Team Member Provides a Remarkable Insight Into Shadowy A-12 Oxcart Project. In another remarkable chapter in the history
This is an automated archive made by the Lemmit Bot.

The original was posted on /r/todayilearned by /u/Middle-Garlic-2325 on 2024-06-25 21:19:01+00:00.

Original Title: TIL the CIA tested the SR-71 radar signature by mounting it to a pole in the desert (Area 51). It was removed daily just before the Soviet satellite passed above. But since a shadow was created on the hot desert dirt - the temperature differential exposed the exact shape of the jet to the Soviets