The 2009 Edwards AFB open house was yesterday. I went to the media day event on Friday and then yesterday's show. Part of the media experience is the opportunity to go to the edge of the main runway along South Base and be away from the crowds and blaring music and announcers and enjoy the roar and proximity of really impressive jets! Here's a sampler shot, more will follow later. This is B-2 "Spirit of New York." Yes, we were that close! I finally got decent taxi, take-off and landing shots of the Stealth Bomber! Yee-haw!!
The Northrop Grumman B-2A Spirit celebrated the 20th anniversary of its first flight last Friday. I missed seeing that milestone by one day. It was originally scheduled to fly July 16th, and several friends and I were lined along the perimeter road in anticipation of a spectacular sight. But a couple of last minute problems scrubbed the flight. Of course, the unauthorized landing by a Cessna light aircraft on the Palmdale / Air Force Plant 42 complex runway did not help matters any. Regardless, the first flight was postponed and took place on the 17th. Unfortunately I was not there.
This shot was taken at the 2006 Edwards AFB open house. In contrast to the early years, the aircraft was displayed outdoors for all to see in the sunlight.
