Exploring the Hallowed Grounds of Decommissioned SR-71 Blackbirds
From the thunderous skies above Palmdale, California, to the prestigious halls of various museums across the United States and even in the United Kingdom, the decommissioned SR-71 Blackbird has left an indelible mark on aviation history. These iconic aircraft not only served as vital military assets but also as fascinating exhibits for the public to admire. This article explores the locations where these remarkable machines can be found for public viewing.
Where to Find SR-71 Blackbirds in California
One of the most accessible locations for public viewing is the Palmdale California Blackbird Park, located on Avenue P, just east of the Lockheed Skunk Works factory on Plant 42 grounds. This area boasts several SR-71 and YF-12 aircraft, including an SR-71 U2 among them. Admission is free, and there's no shortage of fascinating aircraft to explore. Additionally, visitors can find a flyable SR-71 a mere 40 miles away at the NASA Armstrong facility gate. To gain access, you'll need to pass through the U.S. Air Force gate. Please call ahead to understand the visitor requirements.
The SR-71 Beyond the Skies of California
While California is a prime location to view SR-71s, these exceptional aircraft can also be admired in numerous museums across the country. In Seattle, Washington, you can visit the Seattle Air and Space Museum, located at the edge of Boeing Field. Here, the SR-71 joins other equally fascinating aircraft on display.
Navigating eastward, the Museum of the Air Force at Wright-Patterson AFB in Dayton, Ohio, offers a comprehensive look at the rich history of the U.S. Air Force. This museum is home to a number of SR-71s, providing visitors with an in-depth understanding of these incredible machines.
Travelling to the other side of the country, you can find SR-71 Blackbirds at various museums. In Arizona, the Pima Air Space Museum in Tucson and the AF Light Test Center Museum in Edwards AFB, California, each offer unique exhibits. In Michigan, the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo, and in Georgia, the Air Museum at Robins AFB provide visitors with the opportunity to admire these aircraft up close. Additionally, you can visit the AF Armament Museum in Florida, the Cosmosphere in Kansas, and even the SAC Museum in Nebraska. The United Kingdom has its own notable exhibit at the American Air Museum in Britain in Duxford. In Oregon, the Evergreen Aviation Museum, and Virginia's Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum annex in Chantilly all feature SR-71 Blackbirds.
Personal Experiences and Historical Significance
Personal experiences with the SR-71 are vivid and cherished. For instance, one can locate the SR-71 at Eglin AFB in Florida and an A-12 at the USAF Museum in Dayton, Ohio. Another YF-12 is present at the Museum of Flight in Seattle, adding to the overall collection of SR-71-related artifacts.
A notable SR-71 that set the US transcontinental speed record is on display at the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. This aircraft, serial number 972, stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements of these machines.
Concluding Thoughts
The SR-71 Blackbird is undoubtedly a symbol of innovation and engineering prowess. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an aviation aficionado, or simply curious about these iconic aircraft, visiting one of the many museums that house these SR-71 Blackbirds is a must. From California to the United Kingdom, these locations offer a glimpse into the past and a celebration of one of the most significant technological advancements in aviation history.