Virtual Globetrotting: Military

Virtual Globetrotting: Military - R&D http://virtualglobetrotting.com/ A great way to explore everything that can be seen from space! en-us Copyright 2013 Sun, 14 Apr 2013 17:56:26 -0700 http://backend.userland.com/rss <![CDATA[New buildings near nuclear facility]]>

New buildings near nuclear facility
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By: nico
@ 2013-04-14 17:56:26
Started construction around 2007/2008, I guess. Interesting to follow activity there thru the years. Parchin site is relatively large research facility with quite a lot of tunnels and bunkers, numerous industrial hangars spread around.

Article provided adds some extra info.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-buildings-near-nuclear-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-buildings-near-nuclear-facility/ Sun, 14 Apr 2013 17:56:26 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-buildings-near-nuclear-facility/ 35.52025700 51.75604700 <![CDATA[Rail-Based Testing Facility]]>

Rail-Based Testing Facility
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By: jbottero
@ 2013-04-10 22:57:52
Who knows... But it's obviously a rail system.]]>

Rail-Based Testing Facility
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By: jbottero
@ 2013-04-10 22:57:52
Who knows... But it's obviously a rail system.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/rail-based-testing-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/rail-based-testing-facility/ Wed, 10 Apr 2013 22:57:52 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/rail-based-testing-facility/ 35.01297000 -106.55642900 <![CDATA[Khan Research Laboratories]]>

Khan Research Laboratories
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By: jbottero
@ 2013-04-08 22:39:06
Dr. A. Q. Khan, is a Pakistani nuclear scientist and a metallurgical engineer, colloquially regarded as the founder of HEU based Gas-centrifuge uranium enrichment program for Pakistan's integrated atomic bomb project

The Khan Research Laboratories, previously known at various times as Project-706, and Engineering Research Laboratories, is a Pakistan Government's multi-program national research institute, managed and operated under the scrutiny of Pakistan Armed Forces, located in Kahuta, Punjab Province. During the midst of 1970s, the laboratories were the cornerstone of the first stage of Pakistan' atomic bomb project, being one of the various sites where the classified scientific research on atomic bombs were undertaken.]]>

SL-1 Debris Cleanup Site
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By: jbottero
@ 2013-03-24 23:19:03
The SL-1, or Stationary Low-Power Reactor Number One, was a United States Army experimental nuclear power reactor which underwent a steam explosion and meltdown on January 3, 1961, killing its three operators.

The site was cleaned in 1961 to 1962, removing the bulk of the contaminated debris and burying it. The massive cleanup operation included the dismantling and disposal of the reactor and building. A burial ground was constructed approximately 1,600 feet (488 m) northeast of the original site of the reactor. This was done to minimize radiation exposure to the public and site workers that would have resulted from transport of contaminated debris from SL-1 to the Radioactive-Waste Management Complex over 16 miles (26 km) of public highway. Original cleanup of the site took about 18 months. The entire reactor building, contaminated materials from nearby buildings, and soil and gravel contaminated during cleanup operations were disposed of in the burial ground. The majority of buried materials consist of soils and gravel.]]>

Israelis Air Strike into Syria
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By: KRL
@ 2013-02-01 13:03:43
This compound in Jimraya has been reportedly bombed by Israelis Jets. Initial reports describe it as a "Research Facility". Three tall unique towers within compound. Military equipment and numerous revetments to west, north and east of compound.

Shown in attached news item. Conflicting reports within this item as to if this was a target.

Other reports of the airstrike mention a convoy carrying SA-17 Surface to Air Missiles headed to Lebanon.

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/israelis-air-strike-into-syria/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/israelis-air-strike-into-syria/ Fri, 01 Feb 2013 13:03:43 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/israelis-air-strike-into-syria/ 33.57724600 36.23919700 <![CDATA[Nuclear research city of Haibei]]>

Nuclear research city of Haibei
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By: nico
@ 2013-01-17 17:42:06
Northwest Nuclear Weapons Research & Design Academy, or the "Ninth Academy" "Atomic city" is surrounded by different military compounds and bunkers, some seem quite recent and very new.

http://www.nti.org/facilities/705/

http://tibet.dharmakara.net/TibetFacts13.html]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/nuclear-research-city-of-haibei/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/nuclear-research-city-of-haibei/ Thu, 17 Jan 2013 17:42:06 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/nuclear-research-city-of-haibei/ 36.95898000 100.90680600 <![CDATA[Target practice, unusual site.]]>

Target practice, unusual site.
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By: nico
@ 2013-01-14 17:45:44
Site found by kjfitz.

I have seen this site covered by other people that wondered if this is military or not, kind of hard to tell. It would appear the Chinese tried some sort of runway bombs, maybe like French Durandal bomb or dropped some PGMs to take out still stretch of concrete that resembles a runway.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/target-practice-unusual-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/target-practice-unusual-site/ Mon, 14 Jan 2013 17:45:44 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/target-practice-unusual-site/ 39.15006100 88.61660800 <![CDATA[North Korean Nuclear Test base]]>

North Korean Nuclear Test base
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By: nico
@ 2012-12-29 14:28:35
http://38north.org/2012/12/punggyeri122812/]]>

North Korean Nuclear Test base
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By: nico
@ 2012-12-29 14:28:35
http://38north.org/2012/12/punggyeri122812/]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/north-korean-nuclear-test-base/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/north-korean-nuclear-test-base/ Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:28:35 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/north-korean-nuclear-test-base/ 41.27850000 129.08713500 <![CDATA[LIW-Lyttleton Engineering Works]]>

LIW-Lyttleton Engineering Works
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By: nico
@ 2012-12-28 20:40:45
I think this belongs to DENEL.]]>

LIW-Lyttleton Engineering Works
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By: nico
@ 2012-12-28 20:40:45
I think this belongs to DENEL.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/liw-lyttleton-engineering-works/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/liw-lyttleton-engineering-works/ Fri, 28 Dec 2012 20:40:45 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/liw-lyttleton-engineering-works/ -25.80673000 28.19574600 <![CDATA[Anadyr/Gudim Nuclear Storage Facility]]>

Anadyr/Gudim Nuclear Storage Facility
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-27 17:47:39
http://www.gradremstroy.ru/wp-content/gallery/baza-rvsn-anadyr-1-magadan-11-v-pgudym/]]>

Anadyr/Gudim Nuclear Storage Facility
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-27 17:47:39
http://www.gradremstroy.ru/wp-content/gallery/baza-rvsn-anadyr-1-magadan-11-v-pgudym/]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/anadyr-gudim-nuclear-storage-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/anadyr-gudim-nuclear-storage-facility/ Tue, 27 Nov 2012 17:47:39 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/anadyr-gudim-nuclear-storage-facility/ 64.77635000 177.88274000 <![CDATA[Lanzhou Uranium Enrichment Plant]]>

Lanzhou Uranium Enrichment Plant
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-24 18:10:21
There is also some photo-age from old CIA pictures:

http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/china/facility/lanzhou.htm]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/lanzhou-uranium-enrichment-plant/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/lanzhou-uranium-enrichment-plant/ Sat, 24 Nov 2012 18:10:21 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/lanzhou-uranium-enrichment-plant/ 36.14762000 103.53354000 <![CDATA[GRAVES transmitter Broyes les Pesmes]]>

GRAVES transmitter Broyes les Pesmes
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-21 19:38:09]]>

GRAVES transmitter Broyes les Pesmes
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-21 19:38:09]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/graves-transmitter-broyes-les-pesmes/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/graves-transmitter-broyes-les-pesmes/ Wed, 21 Nov 2012 19:38:09 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/graves-transmitter-broyes-les-pesmes/ 47.34818600 5.51908500 <![CDATA[GRAVES site]]>

GRAVES site
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-21 19:23:09
GRAVES Sits on top of an old IRBM silo. It is a french spy program to locate satellites in space.

"GRAVES (Grand Réseau Adapté à la Veille Spatiale) is a French radar-based space surveillance system, akin to the American NAVSPASUR. Using radar measurements, the French Air Force is able to spot satellites orbiting the Earth and determine their orbit. The GRAVES system took 15 years to develop, and became operational in November, 2005. GRAVES is a bistatic radar system using Doppler and directional information to derive the orbits of the detected satellites."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graves_%28system%29]]>

Mont-de-Marsan - BA 118
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-21 18:14:49
Real important French base. Lots of testing done, Niemen Normandy unit with new Rafales operates there now. Also a group of Astor SAMs are located near the base.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/mont-de-marsan-ba-118/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/mont-de-marsan-ba-118/ Wed, 21 Nov 2012 18:14:49 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/mont-de-marsan-ba-118/ 43.91044600 -0.51223800 <![CDATA[China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) rocket engine center]]>

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) rocket engine center

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) rocket engine center
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-17 07:16:27
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/48407498/ns/technology_and_science-space/t/china-tests-powerful-rocket-booster-new-engine/#.UKeprIa5VDg

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/china-aerospace-science-and-technology-corporation-casc-rocket-engine-center/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/china-aerospace-science-and-technology-corporation-casc-rocket-engine-center/ Sat, 17 Nov 2012 07:16:27 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/china-aerospace-science-and-technology-corporation-casc-rocket-engine-center/ 34.30379000 109.14032000 <![CDATA[Bunker finished]]>

Bunker finished
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-12 21:34:49
The 2 roads? seem to have been removed but this bunker at the end of the longer road seems almost finished in latest imagery.

It would seem the Chinese move around these "squares", rearrange them depending on what they are trying to test.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/bunker-finished/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/bunker-finished/ Mon, 12 Nov 2012 21:34:49 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/bunker-finished/ 40.48027100 93.51582900 <![CDATA[New grid like structure]]>

New grid like structure
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-12 21:27:57
These strange structures were not visible on 5/8/2012. They appear afterwards, very recent. Structures seem to be on top on the ground, maybe just a bunch of prefab "boxes" painted?

The 2 bunkers slightly to the north of the "grid" seem to be finished.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-grid-like-structure/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-grid-like-structure/ Mon, 12 Nov 2012 21:27:57 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-grid-like-structure/ 40.46707800 93.52727700 <![CDATA[CW destruction facility]]>

CW destruction facility
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-03 20:51:04

The OPCW said Gaddafi's government had succeeded in destroying 54% of its declared sulphur mustard and about 40% of the precursor chemicals before operations had to be suspended in February 2011 when the destruction facility stopped working. Libya now had until 29 April 2012 to submit a detailed plan and a date by which the destruction of the materials would be completed, the OPCW added. According to an international treaty to rid the world of chemical weapons signed by Libya, stocks were supposed to be destroyed by 29 April 2012.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/cw-destruction-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/cw-destruction-facility/ Sat, 03 Nov 2012 20:51:04 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/cw-destruction-facility/ 32.17735000 12.92334000 <![CDATA[Alleged weapons facility destroyed]]>

Alleged weapons facility destroyed
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-03 19:33:31]]>

Alleged weapons facility destroyed
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By: nico
@ 2012-11-03 19:33:31]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/alleged-weapons-facility-destroyed/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/alleged-weapons-facility-destroyed/ Sat, 03 Nov 2012 19:33:31 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/alleged-weapons-facility-destroyed/ 32.50421000 12.98004000 <![CDATA[Interesting camoflaged buildings]]>

Interesting camoflaged buildings
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By: nico
@ 2012-10-21 20:40:54
These buildings are about 50 miles west of Lop Nor, maybe they are related.]]>

Interesting camoflaged buildings
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By: nico
@ 2012-10-21 20:40:54
These buildings are about 50 miles west of Lop Nor, maybe they are related.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/interesting-camoflaged-buildings/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/interesting-camoflaged-buildings/ Sun, 21 Oct 2012 20:40:54 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/interesting-camoflaged-buildings/ 41.76319000 87.41820000 <![CDATA[China nuclear test site]]>

China nuclear test site
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By: nico
@ 2012-10-21 20:16:46
Lop Nor is China’s only nuclear weapons test site, conducts nuclear weapons training and may be a major nuclear weapons stockpile location.[1] The Lop Nor test site covers 100,000 square kilometers, making it the largest in the world by a factor of almost twenty.[2] Approximately 20,000 square kilometers have been used for nuclear testing purposes, with such a large size attributed to the full spectrum of nuclear tests conducted at this single location

http://www.nti.org/facilities/710/]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/china-nuclear-test-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/china-nuclear-test-site/ Sun, 21 Oct 2012 20:16:46 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/china-nuclear-test-site/ 41.71056000 88.36243000 <![CDATA[Square test area]]>

Square test area
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By: nico
@ 2012-10-19 22:09:58
Very interesting to note that this new test area seems very similar to the latest US one that I found in Nevada. The Chinese is a 200 meters square compared to the US rectangle 90 by120 meters, still generally pretty close, one would believe they serve the same purposes.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/square-test-area/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/square-test-area/ Fri, 19 Oct 2012 22:09:58 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/square-test-area/ 40.41508000 93.58397000 <![CDATA[Simulated Electric Grid]]>

Simulated Electric Grid
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By: nico
@ 2012-10-19 21:58:13
This is really cool, it will be interesting to see if the Chinese just try to drop cluster bombs or if we will see some form of EMP attack.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/simulated-electric-grid/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/simulated-electric-grid/ Fri, 19 Oct 2012 21:58:13 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/simulated-electric-grid/ 40.40493000 93.63764000 <![CDATA[Circular test area]]>

Circular test area
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By: nico
@ 2012-10-19 21:44:41
This facility consists of a circular area 300 meters in diameter. In imagery of 2005-11-03 and 2006-09-18 four fighter aircraft were present near the center of the facility. On 2007-03-25 only three aircraft were present. In addition to the aircraft, there are several small rectangular
structures near the center of the array, numerous concentrically-arranged dark markings, radial lines of small mound-like objects mostly on the south side of the circular area, and what appears to be a lattice-work mast or tower outside the area on the south.

No craters or other signs of weapons impact are apparent in the available images.

Info from PDF FAS Test Area]]>

New hangar addition to Area 51.
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By: nico
@ 2012-10-15 22:36:08
Really surprised that this hasn't been posted on VG! This is the latest new hangar built between 2005 and 2010? It is really big, 342 width by 180 depth. The opening for the doors is about 175feet? The wingspan of a B767 is 156 feet so they have some room to play with. The wingspan for a Global Hawk is 116 feet. If this is for a new high altitude UAV, USAF/CIA went big.

Could also big for a new high altitude, LONG ENDURANCE AIRSHIP like Lockheed ISIS but then the hangar is small for airship. Maybe a smaller black airship to test it?

Could also be for a new high speed vehicle that we keep hearing about....]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-hangar-addition-to-area-51/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-hangar-addition-to-area-51/ Mon, 15 Oct 2012 22:36:08 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-hangar-addition-to-area-51/ 37.22912000 -115.81157300 <![CDATA[Sort of new test grid Nevada]]>

Sort of new test grid Nevada
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By: nico
@ 2012-10-15 21:59:33
I was looking at the range ring found by nic and noticed this "new"grid that was built between 2003 and 2007. It appears to be a rectangle with 6 squares horizontal and 8 squares vertical. There are 12 trucks pretty much evenly spaced. There have been some test as you can notice a relatively tight "shot" group in 2011 imagery, guessing sub-munitions/cluster bomb?]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/sort-of-new-test-grid-nevada/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/sort-of-new-test-grid-nevada/ Mon, 15 Oct 2012 21:59:33 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/sort-of-new-test-grid-nevada/ 37.48866000 -116.21304000 <![CDATA[Test range for warheads and submunitions.]]>

Test range for warheads and submunitions.

Test range for warheads and submunitions.
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By: nico
@ 2012-10-15 21:18:50
This is a very interesting site with lots happening. There are 2 weird looking patterns which are supposed to be spy satellite calibration sites. There is 3 mock airfield on different sizes, shape and this square where you can see numerous impacts from warheads and sub-munitions.

Also to the west, there is LOP NOR, which is China nuke test range. To the east, you will find the 404 Plutonium Facility. To the south, you have a quite expansive ICBM range of DAQAIDAM/MAHAI. Plenty of interesting stuff.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/test-range-for-warheads-and-submunitions/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/test-range-for-warheads-and-submunitions/ Mon, 15 Oct 2012 21:18:50 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/test-range-for-warheads-and-submunitions/ 40.48834000 93.50152000 <![CDATA[Solar Cells? Antenna?]]>

Solar Cells? Antenna?
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By: jbottero
@ 2012-07-11 21:05:45
Structures of some type up on a hill at the China Lake Naval Test Station (otherwise known as the China Lake bombing range). Solar cells? An antenna of some type? Some other kind of sensor?

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/solar-cells-antenna/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/solar-cells-antenna/ Wed, 11 Jul 2012 21:05:45 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/solar-cells-antenna/ 35.40056400 -117.37451800 <![CDATA[Seneca Lake Sonar Test Facility]]>

Seneca Lake Sonar Test Facility
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By: skyeye
@ 2012-07-10 11:09:51
The Seneca Lake Sonar Test Facility, a field station of the Naval Sea Systems Command, tests and evaluates sonar equipment. Pictured here is an instrumented test barge, the System Measurement Platform (SMP).
]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/seneca-lake-sonar-test-facility-1/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/seneca-lake-sonar-test-facility-1/ Tue, 10 Jul 2012 11:09:51 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/seneca-lake-sonar-test-facility-1/ 42.69740215 -76.92512691 <![CDATA[The Institute for Maritime Technology]]>

The Institute for Maritime Technology
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By: skyeye
@ 2012-05-21 17:05:55
The Institute for Maritime Technology, a division of Armscor Defence Institutes (Pty) Ltd, performs defence research in support of the South African National Defence Force.
]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/the-institute-for-maritime-technology/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/the-institute-for-maritime-technology/ Mon, 21 May 2012 17:05:55 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/the-institute-for-maritime-technology/ -34.19340200 18.44527700 <![CDATA[Space Research Corporation Quebec (former)]]>

Space Research Corporation Quebec (former)

Space Research Corporation Quebec (former)
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By: skyeye
@ 2012-04-11 19:41:54
The legendary Canadian weapons engineer Gerald Bull operated Space Research Corporation at a test site of some 6,000 acres (2,400 ha) which straddled the Canada – United States border between Highwater, Quebec, and Jay, Vermont. Here he developed and tested powerful, long-range guns. Bull was assassinated in 1990.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerald_Bull
http://ludb.clui.org/ex/i/VT9998/

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/space-research-corporation-quebec-former/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/space-research-corporation-quebec-former/ Wed, 11 Apr 2012 19:41:54 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/space-research-corporation-quebec-former/ 45.01475600 -72.45118600 <![CDATA[Space Research Corporation (former)]]>

Space Research Corporation (former)
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By: skyeye
@ 2012-04-11 19:37:11
The legendary Canadian weapons engineer Gerald Bull operated Space Research Corporation at a test site of some 6,000 acres (2,400 ha) which straddled the Canada – United States border between Highwater, Quebec, and Jay, Vermont. Here he developed and tested powerful, long-range guns. Bull was assassinated in 1990.

Related:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerald_Bull
http://ludb.clui.org/ex/i/VT9998/

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/space-research-corporation-former/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/space-research-corporation-former/ Wed, 11 Apr 2012 19:37:11 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/space-research-corporation-former/ 45.00519100 -72.44772100 <![CDATA[High Explosive Test Chamber]]>

High Explosive Test Chamber
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By: Parabellum
@ 2012-03-14 08:24:33
ISIS has identified in commercial satellite imagery a building on the Parchin site in Iran that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) wants to visit because it contains, or used to contain, a high-explosive test chamber (see figure 1). The building is located on a relatively small and isolated compound within the Parchin military site and has its own perimeter security wall or fencing. A berm can be seen between this building and a neighboring one, which is consistent with a description of the compound in the November 8, 2011 IAEA Safeguards Report.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/high-explosive-test-chamber/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/high-explosive-test-chamber/ Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:24:33 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/high-explosive-test-chamber/ 35.55927000 51.78510900 <![CDATA[One Two Three Four...]]>

One Two Three Four...
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By: jbottero
@ 2011-10-30 15:59:10
Who knows...]]>

One Two Three Four...
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By: jbottero
@ 2011-10-30 15:59:10
Who knows...]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/one-two-three-four/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/one-two-three-four/ Sun, 30 Oct 2011 15:59:10 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/one-two-three-four/ 36.59066200 -115.50131700 <![CDATA[Area 51 - Aircraft Silhouette]]>

Area 51 - Aircraft Silhouette
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By: jbottero
@ 2011-10-27 23:08:42
A black aircraft on the ramp at Groom Lake - or is it a painted silhouette?]]>

Area 51 - Aircraft Silhouette
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By: jbottero
@ 2011-10-27 23:08:42
A black aircraft on the ramp at Groom Lake - or is it a painted silhouette?]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/area-51-aircraft-silhouette/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/area-51-aircraft-silhouette/ Thu, 27 Oct 2011 23:08:42 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/area-51-aircraft-silhouette/ 37.24529500 -115.81653300 <![CDATA[Zero Gravity Research Facility]]>

Zero Gravity Research Facility
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By: forthefallendrms
@ 2011-10-04 07:56:38
The Zero Gravity Research Facility at the NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio is a unique facility designed to perform tests in a reduced gravity environment. It has successfully supported research for the United States manned spacecraft programs and numerous unmanned projects. The facility uses vertical drop tests in a vacuum chamber to investigate the behavior of components, systems, liquids, gases, and combustion in such circumstances.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/zero-gravity-research-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/zero-gravity-research-facility/ Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:56:38 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/zero-gravity-research-facility/ 41.41024500 -81.86399400 <![CDATA[Fort Halstead]]>

Fort Halstead
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By: skyeye
@ 2011-09-21 05:27:10
Fort Halstead has been the headquarters for the Royal Armament Research Development Establishment (RARDE). The British atomic bomb was developed here. The site is apparently scheduled for development.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Halstead
http://forthalstead.com/site.html
]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/fort-halstead/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/fort-halstead/ Wed, 21 Sep 2011 05:27:10 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/fort-halstead/ 51.31218600 0.14612700 <![CDATA[Drop Zone]]>

Drop Zone
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2010-10-02 09:04:37
Field at the Sudbury Training Annex used by the Natick Labs for air drops.]]>

Drop Zone
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2010-10-02 09:04:37
Field at the Sudbury Training Annex used by the Natick Labs for air drops.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/drop-zone/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/drop-zone/ Sat, 02 Oct 2010 09:04:37 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/drop-zone/ 42.41204036 -71.47558445 <![CDATA[Area 51 Radar Cross Section (RCS) Range]]>

Area 51 Radar Cross Section (RCS) Range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: cthippo
@ 2010-09-01 17:55:10
Radar cross section (RCS) is a measure of how detectable an object is with a radar. A larger RCS indicates that an object is more easily detected.

Measurement of a target's RCS is performed at a radar reflectivity range or scattering range. The first type of range is an outdoor range where the target is positioned on a specially shaped low RCS pylon some distance down-range from the transmitters. Such a range eliminates the need for placing radar absorbers behind the target, however multi-path interactions with the ground must be mitigated.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/area-51-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/area-51-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ Wed, 01 Sep 2010 17:55:10 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/area-51-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ 37.24894900 -115.78364600 <![CDATA[Swift Engineering KillerBee UAV launcher]]>

Swift Engineering KillerBee UAV launcher

Swift Engineering KillerBee UAV launcher
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2010-08-25 08:34:48
The Northrop Grumman Bat (formerly Swift KillerBee) is series of a low flying unmanned air vehicles being developed for the US Air Force, United States Marine Corps, US Navy and the US Department of Homeland Security by Swift Engineering. Designed primarily as an intelligence gathering tool, the KillerBee features 30 lb payload capacity that is unmatched in a 10 ft wing span.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KillerBee_UAV]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/swift-engineering-killerbee-uav-launcher/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/swift-engineering-killerbee-uav-launcher/ Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:34:48 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/swift-engineering-killerbee-uav-launcher/ 33.45106600 -117.59494900 <![CDATA[Nexter Test track with censored areas]]>

Nexter Test track with censored areas
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2010-06-02 15:25:30
Nexter (formerly known as GIAT Industries or Groupement des Industries de l'Armée de Terre, Army's Industries Group) is a French government-owned weapons manufacturer.

It manufactures various weapons and other hardware for the French and other foreign militaries, including:

* The FAMAS assault rifle;
* The FRF2 sniper rifle;
* The Leclerc main battle tank;
* The Véhicule de l'Avant Blindé (VAB) armoured personnel carrier;
* The 20 mm modèle F2 gun;
* The APILAS anti-tank grenade launcher;
* The Wasp 58 Light Anti-Armour Weapon;
* The LG1 Mark II 105 mm towed howitzer;
* The Véhicule Blindé de Combat d'Infanterie (VBCI) wheeled armoured infantry fighting vehicle.
]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/nexter-test-track-with-censored-areas/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/nexter-test-track-with-censored-areas/ Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:25:30 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/nexter-test-track-with-censored-areas/ 48.78513100 2.09515900 <![CDATA[Largest underground hydrogen bomb test - Project Grommet Cannikin]]>

Largest underground hydrogen bomb test - Project Grommet Cannikin
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2010-04-30 09:19:33
Cannikin was detonated on November 6, 1971, as the thirteenth test of the Operation Grommet (1971–1972) underground nuclear test series. The announced yield was "less than five" megatons – the largest underground nuclear test in US history. (Estimates for the precise yield range from 4.4 to 5.2 megatons). The ground lifted 20 feet (6 m), caused by an explosive force equivalent almost 400 times the power of the Hiroshima bomb. Subsidence and faulting at the site created a new lake, over a mile wide. The explosion caused a seismic shock of 7.0 on the Richter scale, causing rockfalls and turf slides of a total of 35,000 square feet. Though earthquakes and tsunamis predicted by environmentalists did not occur, a number of small tectonic events did occur in the following weeks, (some registering as high as 4.0 on the richter scale) thought to be due to the interaction of the explosion with local tectonic stresses.

According to wildlife surveys following the Cannikin event by the University of Alaska Fairbanks, 700–2,000 sea otters were killed by overpressures in the Bering Sea as a direct result of the explosion. This survey showed that number of sea otters endangered by the blast was far greater than the Atomic Energy Commission had predicted.]]>

Emu Field / Ground zero of Totem nuclear tests
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2010-04-28 14:54:40
Emu Field is located in the desert of South Australia. Variously known as Emu Field, Emu Junction or Emu, it was the site of the Operation Totem pair of nuclear tests conducted by the British government in October 1953.

The site was surveyed by Len Beadell in 1952. A village and airstrip were constructed for the subsequent testing program.

Two atomic tests were conducted at the site. Totem 1 was detonated on October 15, 1953 and Totem 2 was detonated on October 27, 1953. The devices were both sited on towers and yielded 9 kilotons and 7 kilotons respectively. The site was also used in September-October 1953 for some of the Kitten series of tests, which were conventional (rather than nuclear) explosions used to evaluate neutron initiators.

It was later found that the radioactive cloud from the first detonation did not disperse as expected, and traveled north-east over the Australian continent.

The site at Emu Field was considered too remote for future use, and the search for a more convenient location led to the survey of Maralinga, where a further series of atomic tests was conducted in 1956.

There are now stone monuments at the ground-zero points, which can be visited by tourists (with the written approval of the RAAF Woomera Test Range who now control access to the area), though the location is still extremely remote (see Anne Beadell Highway). Evidence of the explosions may still be seen at ground-zero in the form of vitrified sand and concentric blast rings.]]>

Project Plumbbob Rainier shot - first US underground nuclear test

Project Plumbbob Rainier shot - first US underground nuclear test
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2010-04-27 09:36:42
Operation Plumbbob was a series of nuclear tests conducted between May 28 and October 7, 1957, at the Nevada Test Site, following Operation Redwing, and preceding Operation Hardtack I. It was the biggest, longest, and most controversial test series in the continental United States.

The Rainier shot, conducted September 19, 1957, was the first fully contained underground nuclear test, meaning that no fission products were vented into the atmosphere. This test of 1.7 kilotons could be detected around the world by seismologists using ordinary seismic instruments. The Rainier test became the prototype for larger and more powerful underground tests.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/project-plumbbob-rainier-shot-first-us-underground-nuclear-test/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/project-plumbbob-rainier-shot-first-us-underground-nuclear-test/ Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:36:42 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/project-plumbbob-rainier-shot-first-us-underground-nuclear-test/ 37.19584800 -116.20357800 <![CDATA[EMP simulator]]>

EMP simulator
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2010-02-16 10:29:16]]>

EMP simulator
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2010-02-16 10:29:16]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/emp-simulator-1/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/emp-simulator-1/ Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:29:16 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/emp-simulator-1/ 58.37850100 15.51719100 <![CDATA[Former Government Laboratory]]>

Former Government Laboratory
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2010-01-24 09:43:36
The Mound Laboratory was an Atomic Energy Commision facility involved in research and production of nuclear weapons components. It was decommissioned in 1994. Since then it was declared a Superfund site. The area is now being developed as a technology park.

http://www.mound.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mound_Laboratories]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/former-government-laboratory/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/former-government-laboratory/ Sun, 24 Jan 2010 09:43:36 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/former-government-laboratory/ 39.63150600 -84.28743100 <![CDATA[Abandoned Radar Site]]>

Abandoned Radar Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2010-01-21 18:29:22
Gap-Filler Radar site used in the Experimental SAGE Subsector (ESS) operated by MIT Lincoln Labs.

]]>

Abandoned Radar Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2010-01-21 18:29:22
Gap-Filler Radar site used in the Experimental SAGE Subsector (ESS) operated by MIT Lincoln Labs.

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-radar-site-13/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-radar-site-13/ Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:29:22 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-radar-site-13/ 41.86573400 -71.82095800 <![CDATA[Abandoned Government Lab]]>

BEV

Abandoned Government Lab
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2010-01-21 11:45:59
The Georgia Nuclear Aircraft Laboratory conducted research toward the development of nuclear-powered aircraft. The site occupied 10,000 acres and is now a wildlife management area. Remains of structures, including the hot cell, may still be seen.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-government-lab/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-government-lab/ Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:45:59 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-government-lab/ 34.35105220 -84.14407807 <![CDATA[Abandoned Radar Development Site]]>

BEV

Abandoned Radar Development Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2010-01-16 18:32:10
Lincoln Laboratory built an experimental radar here for the SAGE program in the 1950s. Long abandoned, the site is now an antenna farm surrounded by an automobile junkyard.

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-radar-development-site-1/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-radar-development-site-1/ Sat, 16 Jan 2010 18:32:10 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-radar-development-site-1/ 43.90180788 -69.84584274 <![CDATA[Abandoned Radar Development Site]]>

BEV

Abandoned Radar Development Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2010-01-16 17:56:57
In developing the SAGE system in the nineteen-fifties, Lincoln Laboratory built an experimental radar atop Boston Hill near North Andover, Massachusetts. The site is now an antenna farm.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-radar-development-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-radar-development-site/ Sat, 16 Jan 2010 17:56:57 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/abandoned-radar-development-site/ 42.64700000 -71.09368734 <![CDATA[Brazil's Aeronautics and Space Institute Radar Cross Section (RCS) range]]>

Brazil's Aeronautics and Space Institute Radar Cross Section (RCS) range

Brazil's Aeronautics and Space Institute Radar Cross Section (RCS) range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-12-18 10:03:14
Brazil's Aeronautics and Space Institute in Sao Jose dos Campos operates a small outdoor RCS range. The range consists of a pylon for mounting targets of up to 2000 kilograms, and an adjustable radar array capable of being adjusted in both elevation and azimuth. The range is used to measure small objects, and to evaluate the effects of radar-absorbent materials.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/brazils-aeronautics-and-space-institute-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/brazils-aeronautics-and-space-institute-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ Fri, 18 Dec 2009 10:03:14 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/brazils-aeronautics-and-space-institute-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ -23.21851400 -45.86776100 <![CDATA[Tver Radar Cross Section (RCS) range]]>

Tver Radar Cross Section (RCS) range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-12-18 09:59:19
The Tver RCS range, formerly known as the Kalinin RCS range during the Soviet era, is located northwest of Moscow. This facility is interesting as it appears to be constructed to measure the RCS of objects suspended between two large gantries. The gantires are separated by approximately 400 meters, with the attachment point for the test object roughly halfway between them. Various exapmples of land-based radar systems are located at the western end of the large clearing housing the measurement range.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tver-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tver-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:59:19 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tver-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ 56.88150800 35.94235200 <![CDATA[Voronezh Radar Cross Section (RCS) range]]>

Voronezh Radar Cross Section (RCS) range

Voronezh Radar Cross Section (RCS) range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-12-18 09:53:35
The Voronezh facility employes a large cleared area for radar propagation and a battery of land-based radars for signal generation. It is designed for measurement of surface or pylon-mounted articles. The circular platform where test articles would be mounted also appears to contain a rotating central area, allowing for signatures to be measured at different aspect angles without having to completely reinstall the test article.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/voronezh-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/voronezh-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:53:35 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/voronezh-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ 51.61428600 39.11390300 <![CDATA[Centre ďElectronique de I’Armement SOLANGE Radar Cross Section (RCS) Range]]>

Centre ďElectronique de I’Armement SOLANGE Radar Cross Section (RCS) Range

Centre ďElectronique de I’Armement SOLANGE Radar Cross Section (RCS) Range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-12-18 09:39:22
SOLANGE is an indoor RCS measurement facility able to measure full-scale flyable aircrafts up to 15 tons and 20 meters large.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/centre-electronique-de-i-armement-solange-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/centre-electronique-de-i-armement-solange-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:39:22 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/centre-electronique-de-i-armement-solange-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ 47.99231300 -1.74545300 <![CDATA[EMP-simulator]]>

EMP-simulator
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-12-18 09:23:39]]>

EMP-simulator
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-12-18 09:23:39]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/emp-simulator/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/emp-simulator/ Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:23:39 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/emp-simulator/ 58.38885000 15.51167100 <![CDATA[EADS Radar Cross Section (RCS) range]]>

EADS Radar Cross Section (RCS) range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-12-18 09:00:21
The structure in the thumbnail is the 'pylon' or RCS target with a cover over it. The radar is mobile and rolled southwest along the taxi strip. Earlier GE imagery shows the cover off with a tornado mounted on the pylon and a radar in postion to the SW.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/eads-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/eads-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:00:21 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/eads-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ 48.72337300 11.54482300 <![CDATA[BAe Systems Radar Cross Section (RCS) Range]]>

BAe Systems Radar Cross Section (RCS) Range

BAe Systems Radar Cross Section (RCS) Range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-12-18 08:53:21
Supporting BAe's work on low-RCS designs, such as the Replica, and potentially aiding the Eurofighter program, the RCS range is situated on the grounds of BAe Systems' Warton airfield. A retractable hangar allows for test articles to be hidden from view, while a possible secondary measurement platform allows for objects not fitting inside the hangar to be evaluated.

Testing at BAe's Warton facility on the DA4 prototype measured the RCS of the Eurofighter Typhoon.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/bae-systems-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/bae-systems-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ Fri, 18 Dec 2009 08:53:21 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/bae-systems-radar-cross-section-rcs-range/ 53.73814300 -2.87883600 <![CDATA[Wide Aperture Research Facility (WARF) transmitter]]>

Wide Aperture Research Facility (WARF) transmitter

Wide Aperture Research Facility (WARF) transmitter
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-09-29 08:25:23
WARF, a high-resolution, bistatic HF skywave radar system is located at two major field sites in the central valley of California. The WARF transmitter site is near Lost Hills, California and the receiver site is near Los Banos, California, about 100 nmi north of the transmitter site. WARF is the only testbed in the United States devoted to advanced technology R&D for OTH radars across a wide range of activities. In the past WARF was used to develop the long-range detection and tracking technology that became the foundation of operational OTH radar programs for the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Navy, and the government of Australia.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wide-aperture-research-facility-warf-transmitter/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wide-aperture-research-facility-warf-transmitter/ Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:25:23 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wide-aperture-research-facility-warf-transmitter/ 35.69821200 -119.95396000 <![CDATA[Wide Aperture Research Facility (WARF) receiver]]>

Wide Aperture Research Facility (WARF) receiver

Wide Aperture Research Facility (WARF) receiver
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-09-29 08:23:30
WARF, a high-resolution, bistatic HF skywave radar system is located at two major field sites in the central valley of California. The WARF transmitter site is near Lost Hills, California and the receiver site is near Los Banos, California, about 100 nmi north of the transmitter site. WARF is the only testbed in the United States devoted to advanced technology R&D for OTH radars across a wide range of activities. In the past WARF was used to develop the long-range detection and tracking technology that became the foundation of operational OTH radar programs for the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Navy, and the government of Australia.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wide-aperture-research-facility-warf-receiver/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wide-aperture-research-facility-warf-receiver/ Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:23:30 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/wide-aperture-research-facility-warf-receiver/ 37.15693100 -120.94385100 <![CDATA[Radar Target Scatter (RATSCAT) range]]>

Radar Target Scatter (RATSCAT) range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-09-28 15:59:13
The Radar Target Scatter [RATSCAT] Division is a one-of-a-kind facility combining the best in monostatic and bistatic radar cross section (RCS) measurements. Located on White Sands Missile Range, it is ideally situated to provide precision signature measurements of low observable weapon systems.

RATSCAT consists of two separate but complementary test sites. Mainsite, located on the alkali flats region of WSMR, provides the capability of measuring full-scale models and flyable aircraft weighing up to 100,000 pounds (220,000 kg). On-site radars provide frequency coverage from 140 MHz to 18 GHz with spot coverage at 35 and 94 Ghz. Two ground bounce ranges are available with monostatic and bistatic test locations up to 7500 feet from the radars. RATSCAT Advanced Measurement System (RAMS) is located 35 miles northwest of Mainsite at the base of the San Andres mountains. RAMS is the premier outdoor static range for measuring low and very low observable targets at both low and high frequencies. The 8900-foot paved shadow range has two separate radar systems covering 120 MHz to 18 GHz with spot frequency coverage at 35 GHz. The retractable pylon can handle targets weighing up to 30,000 pounds (66,000 kg).]]>

USS Desert Ship (LLS-1)
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-09-28 15:41:01
USS Desert Ship (LLS-1) is a Navy surface-to-air weapons testing facility at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division-White Sands.

The beginning of construction of the Desert Ship coincided with the start of testing of the RIM-8 Talos missile. Although there was a mock christening upon completion of the building, the Desert Ship has never been commissioned and special permission from Congress was required to name the building USS Desert Ship. The designation "LLS" stands for "Land Locked Ship".

Desert Ship was originally used to test the Talos missile. Subsequent uses have included the Standard Missile, Aegis Weapons System, and in mid-2008, the Standard Missile 6.

The Desert Ship is one of two 'Land-Locked Ships' operated by the U.S. Navy. The other being the USS Rancocas in New Jersey.]]>

Iran's Second Nuke Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: mlc1us
@ 2009-09-27 08:43:11
Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) has obtained satellite imagery from DigitalGlobe of two possible locations of the gas centrifuge uranium enrichment facility under construction near Qom, Iran. Both are tunnel facilities located within military compounds approximately 30-40 kilometers away from Qom.

This is one of the two possible locations. The other one is also mapped on this site.

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/irans-second-nuke-site-1/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/irans-second-nuke-site-1/ Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:43:11 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/irans-second-nuke-site-1/ 34.88449600 50.99593900 <![CDATA[Iran's Second Nuke Site?]]>

Iran's Second Nuke Site?
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: Parabellum
@ 2009-09-25 08:29:24
Iran's nuclear program is again making the news cycles after the country admitted this week that it has built a second nuclear fuel processing plant, to complement the one at Natanz.

According to the New York Times, the admission by Iran came after it learned that western intelligence agencies knew of its existence, and indeed the US, UK and French leaders were just now on TV to accuse Iran of having concealed the plant from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for all the years it was under construction.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/irans-second-nuke-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/irans-second-nuke-site/ Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:29:24 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/irans-second-nuke-site/ 34.94359100 50.76153500 <![CDATA[Unidentified Radar Cross Section (RCS) range]]>

Unidentified Radar Cross Section (RCS) range

Unidentified Radar Cross Section (RCS) range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-09-09 16:37:04
A few miles south of Walnut Springs, behind significant hills on the west side of the site, and dense foliage on the east side, lies what appears to be an abandoned airport. Terrain and foliage, plus relative distance from highway TX-144 on the west side, and highway TX-927 on the east side, prevent unrestricted viewing of the location.

The facility is not marked as abandoned (magenta circle with an "x" centered on the circle) on any VFR sectional, or, any other aerial navigation map, unlike other abandoned or closed airports across the world, and by ICAO convention (International Civil Aviation Organization).

However, online photography does show both "runways" on site (there is a large, main runway of about 6,000 feet in length, and a smaller, slightly fan-shaped surface of about 1,500 feet in length), marked with what appears to be FAA-standard yellow "x" markings, indicating the surfaces are abandoned runways, but are unusable, unsafe, or both.

The physical location is inside a rough triangle that is composed of the cities of Walnut Springs, Morgan, and Meridian. The latitude and longitude is N 32.02536, W -97.67854, respectively.

The mystery airport is not the Diamond Seven Ranch private airstrip, located north-northwest of Morgan.

The site is easily found on all free mapping web sites. Microsoft TerraServer USA and Google Maps have the best photography of the location yet found.

All roads leading to the location are closed with green-painted US Government gates, and "No Trespassing" signs abound. The described signage is true for the entrance from TX-927, and TX-144. The signs so nothing about government stuff.

January 1, 2008 Update:

Overnight research and correspondence has provided a potential explanation for this location's "mystery" airport.

Apparently, the site is a either a former, or still active, testing location for cross-section reflectivity of different types of ground- and aircraft-based radar. The relative proximity of the Ft. Worth, Texas, military/industrial manufacturing base may have a bearing on the facility. The facility is not a runway for aircraft, in the conventional sense.]]>

Amchitka Island Runway and Nuke Sites
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: jbottero
@ 2009-08-25 18:56:22
Amchitka is a volcanic, tectonically unstable island in the Rat Islands group of the Aleutian Islands in southwest Alaska.

Amchitka was selected by the United States Atomic Energy Commission to be the site for underground detonations of nuclear weapons. Three such tests were carried out: Long Shot, an 80 kiloton blast in 1965; Milrow, a 1 megaton blast in 1969; and Cannikin in 1971 – at "under 5 megatons", the largest underground test ever conducted by the United States.

The SE end is in much better resolution close up.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/amchitka-island-runway-and-nuke-sites/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/amchitka-island-runway-and-nuke-sites/ Tue, 25 Aug 2009 18:56:22 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/amchitka-island-runway-and-nuke-sites/ 51.38313800 179.25636300 <![CDATA[EMPRESS I EMP Naval test facility]]>

EMPRESS I EMP Naval test facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-07-06 16:19:50]]>

EMPRESS I EMP Naval test facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-07-06 16:19:50]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/empress-i-emp-naval-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/empress-i-emp-naval-test-facility/ Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:19:50 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/empress-i-emp-naval-test-facility/ 38.33147300 -76.47889900 <![CDATA[North Korean Underground Nuclear Bomb Test Site]]>

North Korean Underground Nuclear Bomb Test Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: Parabellum
@ 2009-05-25 06:38:45]]>

North Korean Underground Nuclear Bomb Test Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: Parabellum
@ 2009-05-25 06:38:45]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/north-korean-underground-nuclear-bomb-test-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/north-korean-underground-nuclear-bomb-test-site/ Mon, 25 May 2009 06:38:45 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/north-korean-underground-nuclear-bomb-test-site/ 42.13012100 130.13994500 <![CDATA[Iran Missile Test Facilities?]]>

Iran Missile Test Facilities?
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: Gosell
@ 2009-05-20 07:27:12
Iran announced test of IRBM from "Semnan" test site. This is the most likely launch pad in the area.]]>

Iran Missile Test Facilities?
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: Gosell
@ 2009-05-20 07:27:12
Iran announced test of IRBM from "Semnan" test site. This is the most likely launch pad in the area.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/iran-missile-test-facilities/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/iran-missile-test-facilities/ Wed, 20 May 2009 07:27:12 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/iran-missile-test-facilities/ 35.38499100 53.74259600 <![CDATA[Lockheed Martin SPY-1 Phased Array radar test facility]]>

Lockheed Martin SPY-1 Phased Array radar test facility

BEV

Lockheed Martin SPY-1 Phased Array radar test facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-14 14:56:48
The AN/SPY-1D, AN/SPY-1D(V), SPY-1F, SPY-1F(V) and SPY-1K(V) form today's robust family of S-band multi-function phased array radar systems designed to meet the most demanding requirements and environments faced by naval forces.

A single SPY-1 multi-function radar system is unique in that it replaces numerous conventional stovepiped sensors resident on ships in the fleet today. Some of these sensors include:

* Long range volumetric search radar
* High data rate horizon search radar
* Surface search radar
* Fire control quality tracking radars

The result is a more integrated and higher capability sensor and weapon system that reduces system reaction time, enhances firepower, rejects unwanted interference and ensures safe and reliable operations. The S-band frequency range allows these systems to maintain their level of performance in all-weather operations, perform all major radar functions in a single aperture, and perform proven S-band mid-course guidance for semi-active missiles such as ESSM and SM-2.]]>

BEV

Northrop Grumman High Altitude Test Stand (HATS)

BEV

Northrop Grumman High Altitude Test Stand (HATS)
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-14 12:41:32
Alpha space based laser and Alpha Lamp Integration system facility; includes two large vacuum chambers, an integration area, and Class 100,000 clean room.

The High Altitude Test Stand was originally built in the early 1960s to perform altitude testing of the Lunar Module Descent Engine (LMDE). In the 1970's the facility was transformed to test the Mid Infrared Army Chemical Laser (MIRACLE) – now located at White Sands, New Mexico. During the 1980’s, the facility underwent major renovation and restructuring to become the test bed for the Alpha Space Based Laser.
Today, the HATS facility can handle many different test articles, from lasers to rockets to optical systems that need an isolated environment either at vacuum or ambient pressure. The capabilities in the test area provide a multi-use facility, which can easily accommodate large test articles for a number of applications.]]>

BEV

Tunnels at Iranian missile research facility

Tunnels at Iranian missile research facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-12 09:21:31
The Shahid Hemmat Industrial Complex is responsible for the development of of Iran's ballistic and cruise missile systems. The Industrial Group responsible for operating the facility is subordinate to the Sanam Industrial Group and it has invited a number of Chinese and North Korean researchers to assist scientists working at Shahid Hemmat.

he complex is protected by the Revolutionary Guard Corps and reportedly produced the Shahab-3 and Shahab-4 missiles which were tested in May 2002.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tunnels-at-iranian-missile-research-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tunnels-at-iranian-missile-research-facility/ Tue, 12 May 2009 09:21:31 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tunnels-at-iranian-missile-research-facility/ 35.66633600 51.64104200 <![CDATA[Shahid Hemmat Industrial Complex rocket engine test stands]]>

Shahid Hemmat Industrial Complex rocket engine test stands

Shahid Hemmat Industrial Complex rocket engine test stands
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-05-12 09:19:09
The Shahid Hemmat Industrial Complex is responsible for the development of of Iran's ballistic and cruise missile systems. The Industrial Group responsible for operating the facility is subordinate to the Sanam Industrial Group and it has invited a number of Chinese and North Korean researchers to assist scientists working at Shahid Hemmat.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/shahid-hemmat-industrial-complex-rocket-engine-test-stands/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/shahid-hemmat-industrial-complex-rocket-engine-test-stands/ Tue, 12 May 2009 09:19:09 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/shahid-hemmat-industrial-complex-rocket-engine-test-stands/ 35.65605400 51.65225400 <![CDATA[New RCS Facility at China Lake?]]>

New RCS Facility at China Lake?
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: stu650
@ 2009-04-12 04:59:47
Maybe a new Radar Cross Section Facility at China Lake?]]>

New RCS Facility at China Lake?
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: stu650
@ 2009-04-12 04:59:47
Maybe a new Radar Cross Section Facility at China Lake?]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-rcs-facility-at-china-lake/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-rcs-facility-at-china-lake/ Sun, 12 Apr 2009 04:59:47 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/new-rcs-facility-at-china-lake/ 36.15024700 -117.53260700 <![CDATA[AUTEC-Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center]]>

AUTEC-Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center

AUTEC-Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: giove
@ 2009-04-08 07:30:13
The U.S. Navy's Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center (AUTEC) is an instrumented laboratory that performs integrated three-dimensional hydrospace/aerospace trajectory measurements covering the entire spectrum of undersea simulated warfare: calibration, classifications, detection, and destruction. Its vital mission is to assist in establishing and maintaining naval supremacy of the United States through testing, evaluation, and underwater research.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/autec-atlantic-undersea-test-and-evaluation-center/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/autec-atlantic-undersea-test-and-evaluation-center/ Wed, 08 Apr 2009 07:30:13 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/autec-atlantic-undersea-test-and-evaluation-center/ 24.70847500 -77.75693900 <![CDATA[Seneca Lake Sonar Test Facility]]>

BEV

Seneca Lake Sonar Test Facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-31 23:37:17
Seneca Lake Detachment, Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport, Rhode Island
]]>

BEV

Seneca Lake Sonar Test Facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-31 23:37:17
Seneca Lake Detachment, Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport, Rhode Island
]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/seneca-lake-sonar-test-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/seneca-lake-sonar-test-facility/ Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:37:17 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/seneca-lake-sonar-test-facility/ 42.68543000 -76.95180800 <![CDATA[Forestport Test Site]]>

Forestport Test Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-25 20:16:35
The Rome Air Development Center tested and developed communications systems here.]]>

Forestport Test Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-25 20:16:35
The Rome Air Development Center tested and developed communications systems here.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/forestport-test-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/forestport-test-site/ Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:16:35 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/forestport-test-site/ 43.44481800 -75.08606000 <![CDATA[Floyd Test Site]]>

BEV

Floyd Test Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-25 20:13:37
The Rome Air Development Center tested and developed communications systems here.

]]>

BEV

Floyd Test Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-25 20:13:37
The Rome Air Development Center tested and developed communications systems here.

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/floyd-test-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/floyd-test-site/ Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:13:37 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/floyd-test-site/ 43.19475800 -75.34235000 <![CDATA[Starr Hill Test Site]]>

BEV

Starr Hill Test Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-25 18:38:44
The Rome Air Development Center tested electronic systems at this facility.
]]>

BEV

Starr Hill Test Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-25 18:38:44
The Rome Air Development Center tested electronic systems at this facility.
]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/starr-hill-test-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/starr-hill-test-site/ Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:38:44 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/starr-hill-test-site/ 43.34649105 -75.24891275 <![CDATA[Ava Test Annex]]>

BEV

Ava Test Annex
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-25 18:23:26
The Rome Air Development Center tested electronics systems at this site.]]>

BEV

Ava Test Annex
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-25 18:23:26
The Rome Air Development Center tested electronics systems at this site.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/ava-test-annex/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/ava-test-annex/ Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:23:26 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/ava-test-annex/ 43.41390468 -75.39947439 <![CDATA[Ipswich Test Radar]]>

BEV

Ipswich Test Radar
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-24 17:03:34
The US Air Force Research Laboratory Sensors Directorate, based at Hanscom Air Force Base, operates this antenna test facility.

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/ipswich-test-radar/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/ipswich-test-radar/ Tue, 24 Mar 2009 17:03:34 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/ipswich-test-radar/ 42.70140500 -70.80006400 <![CDATA[Antenna Test Station]]>

BEV

Antenna Test Station
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-24 08:40:28
The US Air Force Research Laboratory Sensors Directorate, based at Hanscom Air Force Base, operates this antenna test facility.

A short distance to the west is the associated antenna field.

The MIT Radiation Laboratory conducted radar development here during WW II.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/antenna-test-station/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/antenna-test-station/ Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:40:28 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/antenna-test-station/ 42.70815700 -70.80221200 <![CDATA[Sagamore Hill Solar Observatory]]>

BEV

Sagamore Hill Solar Observatory
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-24 07:51:40
Detachment 2, The 2nd Weather Group , US Air Force Weather Agency,
monitors solar activity, including flares which disrupt communications.

To the right of the site are the remains of a former satellite communications station.

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/sagamore-hill-solar-observatory/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/sagamore-hill-solar-observatory/ Tue, 24 Mar 2009 07:51:40 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/sagamore-hill-solar-observatory/ 42.63178800 -70.81978100 <![CDATA["Irish" Research Site]]>

"Irish" Research Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-22 22:36:00
Part of the Newport Research Facility, site Irish is primarily used to gather antenna pattern and coverage data on airframes. It is associated with the Tanner site 1.5 miles away.

The USGS Newport topo quad describes this as the Newport Test Annex.

Related reading:
http://www.wpafb.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-080109-060.pdf]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/irish-research-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/irish-research-site/ Sun, 22 Mar 2009 22:36:00 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/irish-research-site/ 43.14876900 -75.04159900 <![CDATA[Tanner Research Site]]>

Tanner Research Site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-03-22 22:31:16
Part of the Newport Research Facility, site Tanner is primarily used to gather antenna pattern and coverage data of airframes. It is associated with site Irish, 1.5 miles away.

The site is shown on the USGS Newport quad as "USAF Newport Test Annex Radio Facility"

Related reading:
http://www.wpafb.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-080109-060.pdf
]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tanner-research-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tanner-research-site/ Sun, 22 Mar 2009 22:31:16 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/tanner-research-site/ 43.16161500 -75.06434400 <![CDATA[Gloster Whittle Replica, England's first Jet]]>

Gloster Whittle Replica, England's first Jet

BEV

Gloster Whittle Replica, England's first Jet
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: Gosell
@ 2009-03-02 21:27:44
Replica of the UK's first Jet flying in 1941.

In 1946, the first prototype (Serial W4041) was placed in the Science Museum in Central London, where it is still exhibited. A full-size replica has been placed on an obelisk on a roundabout near the northern perimeter of Farnborough airfield in Hampshire as a memorial to Sir Frank Whittle. A similar full-size model is on display in the middle of a roundabout at Lutterworth in Leicestershire (pictured below) where the aircraft's engine was produced.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/gloster-whittle-replica-englands-first-jet/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/gloster-whittle-replica-englands-first-jet/ Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:27:44 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/gloster-whittle-replica-englands-first-jet/ 51.28478900 -0.77930000 <![CDATA[MUOS Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Pacific]]>

MUOS Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Pacific

BEV

MUOS Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Pacific
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: maveriick
@ 2009-03-02 18:29:17]]>

BEV

MUOS Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Pacific
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: maveriick
@ 2009-03-02 18:29:17]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/muos-naval-computer-and-telecommunications-area-master-station-pacific/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/muos-naval-computer-and-telecommunications-area-master-station-pacific/ Mon, 02 Mar 2009 18:29:17 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/muos-naval-computer-and-telecommunications-area-master-station-pacific/ 21.52102400 -157.99423500 <![CDATA[Little Skull Mountain Tunnel (north adit)]]>

Little Skull Mountain Tunnel (north adit)

Little Skull Mountain Tunnel (north adit)
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-02-08 15:22:02
Little Skull Mountain was at one time being drilled for the MX Missile program's stationary rockets.

In 1983 REECo miners, used a 256-ton tunnel boring machine to drill a 750-foot tunnel into Little Skull Mountain as part of the project. The tunnel was later used by the Air Force to investigate equipment and methods for post-attack "dig-out" from underground missile complexes.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/little-skull-mountain-tunnel-north-adit/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/little-skull-mountain-tunnel-north-adit/ Sun, 08 Feb 2009 15:22:02 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/little-skull-mountain-tunnel-north-adit/ 36.72528100 -116.32823600 <![CDATA[Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP) test range]]>

Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP) test range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-01-31 12:40:05]]>

Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP) test range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-01-31 12:40:05]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/electro-magnetic-pulse-emp-test-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/electro-magnetic-pulse-emp-test-range/ Sat, 31 Jan 2009 12:40:05 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/electro-magnetic-pulse-emp-test-range/ 38.28903600 -76.39329300 <![CDATA[Steam catapult test bed]]>

Steam catapult test bed
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-01-31 12:37:16]]>

Steam catapult test bed
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2009-01-31 12:37:16]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/steam-catapult-test-bed/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/steam-catapult-test-bed/ Sat, 31 Jan 2009 12:37:16 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/steam-catapult-test-bed/ 38.27851700 -76.39774300 <![CDATA[Hypervelocity Gun Facility]]>

Hypervelocity Gun Facility
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: skyeye
@ 2009-01-13 09:54:37
The Hypervelocity Gun Facility was used to test the impact of high velocity
projectiles on depleted uranium targets.

]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/hypervelocity-gun-facility/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/hypervelocity-gun-facility/ Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:54:37 -0800 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/hypervelocity-gun-facility/ 38.65757000 -76.53156100 <![CDATA[Aerospace test centre]]>

Aerospace test centre
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-09-12 11:49:23
The £30million project to build the facility was established in 2003 with the help of Boeing, which offered related technology in accordance with its contract with Seoul on the sale of 40 F-15K fighter jets.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/aerospace-test-centre/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/aerospace-test-centre/ Fri, 12 Sep 2008 11:49:23 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/aerospace-test-centre/ 36.70550900 126.47756000 <![CDATA[Former Soviet Anti Satellite Laser site]]>

Former Soviet Anti Satellite Laser site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-08-16 18:36:02
See also this from Jane's.]]>

Former Soviet Anti Satellite Laser site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-08-16 18:36:02
See also this from Jane's.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/former-soviet-anti-satellite-laser-site/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/former-soviet-anti-satellite-laser-site/ Sat, 16 Aug 2008 18:36:02 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/former-soviet-anti-satellite-laser-site/ 45.84788200 73.51784700 <![CDATA[Project HARP (High Altitude Research Project) 16 inch gun barrel]]>

Project HARP (High Altitude Research Project) 16 inch gun barrel

Project HARP (High Altitude Research Project) 16 inch gun barrel
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-08-04 23:12:28
Project HARP, short for High Altitude Research Project, was a joint project of the United States Department of Defense and Canada's Department of National Defence created with the goal of studying ballistics of re-entry vehicles at low cost; whereas most such projects used expensive (and failure-prone) rockets, HARP used a non-rocket spacelaunch method based on a very large gun to fire the models to high altitudes and speeds.

The project was based on a flight range of the Seawell Airport in Barbados, from which shells were fired eastward toward the Atlantic Ocean. Using an old U.S. Navy 16 inch (406 mm) 50 caliber gun (20 m), later extended to 100 caliber (40 m), the team was able to fire a 180 kilogram slug at 3600 meters per second, reaching an altitude of 180 kilometers. The program was cancelled shortly after this. The politics of the Vietnam War (then in its fifth year) and soured Canada/U.S. relations played their role in the project's cancellation. The project received just over 10 million dollars during its lifetime.]]>

Avro Arrow engine test site
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-07-31 00:23:19
The Avro Canada CF-105 Arrow was a delta-wing interceptor aircraft, designed and built by Avro Aircraft Limited (Canada) in Malton, Ontario, Canada, as the culmination of a design study that began in 1953. Considered to be both an advanced technical and aerodynamic achievement for the Canadian aviation industry, the CF-105 held the promise of Mach 2 speeds at 50,000 ft+ altitude, and was intended to serve as the Royal Canadian Air Force's interceptor for the 1960s and beyond.

Following the start of its flight test program in 1958, the Arrow, and its accompanying Orenda Iroquois jet engine program, were abruptly cancelled in 1959, sparking a long and bitter political debate. The Arrow is still the subject of controversy, almost 50 years after it was cancelled.]]>

Edwards AFB Extended High-Speed Test Track

Edwards AFB Extended High-Speed Test Track
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-07-27 20:35:27
The original 10k foot track was built in 1949 and then extended to 20k feet in 1959. In 1963, the track was shut down and consolidated with the Holloman track (HHSTT).]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/edwards-afb-extended-high-speed-test-track/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/edwards-afb-extended-high-speed-test-track/ Sun, 27 Jul 2008 20:35:27 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/edwards-afb-extended-high-speed-test-track/ 34.81161900 -117.91874900 <![CDATA[Scale models of Nimitz class aircraft carriers]]>

Scale models of Nimitz class aircraft carriers
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-07-12 00:49:10
Used on the Topside Antenna.]]>

Scale models of Nimitz class aircraft carriers
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-07-12 00:49:10
Used on the Topside Antenna.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/scale-models-of-nimitz-class-aircraft-carriers/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/scale-models-of-nimitz-class-aircraft-carriers/ Sat, 12 Jul 2008 00:49:10 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/scale-models-of-nimitz-class-aircraft-carriers/ 32.69821300 -117.24701100 <![CDATA[Idaho National Labs Test Area North]]>

Idaho National Labs Test Area North
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: Parabellum
@ 2008-06-18 11:25:38
In 1949, an area of the fringe of the NRTS property named "Test Area North", or TAN, was developed by the U.S. Air Force and the Atomic Energy Commission to support the Aircraft Nuclear Propulsion program's attempt to develop a nuclear-powered aircraft. The programs' Heat Transfer Reactor Experiments (HTRE) were conducted here in 1955 by contractor General Electric, and were a series of tests to develop a system of transferring reactor-heated air to a modified General Electric J47 jet engine. The planned aircraft, the Convair X-6, was to be test flown at TAN, and a large hangar with radiation shielding was built on the site. The program was cancelled, however, before the accompanying 15,000-foot runway was built.]]>

BEV

Supersonic Military Air Research Track
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: Parabellum
@ 2008-06-18 10:24:27
Coleman Engineering began construction of the facility during the summer of 1954. The track consisted of 12,000 feet of continuously welded, heavy-duty rails that formed the longest rocket research track in the United States to that date. The entire facility included the track, launching pad, crew shelters, camera towers, rocket storage depots, water system, power system, communication system, security facilities, administration building, and a shop building. Coleman had completed the base by July 8, 1955, when the first test took place.

Testing at the site typically involved hurling a rocket sled, carrying a seat with a dummy known as "Hurricane Sam" strapped to it, along the track at a speed of 1,050 miles per hour (Mach 1.3). "Sam," in actuality, was a highly instrumented anthropoid simulator with electronic equipment and a radio connected to it. Just before reaching the edge of the cliff the ejection mechanism fired, flinging the dummy over the precipice where its parachute opened and it floated to the valley floor.

This article says the facility closed in 1961 but it appears to still be in use.
]]>

BEV

BEV

Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: Parabellum
@ 2008-06-17 18:25:16
Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory is a U.S. Government-owned, contractor-operated research and development facility located in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. It solely focuses on the design and development of nuclear power for the U.S. Navy.

The laboratory, founded in 1949 and consisting of approximately 207 acres[1], is operated for the Department of Energy (DOE) by Bechtel Bettis, Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bechtel Corporation. Bechtel won the contract to run the laboratory in 1999; prior to that the plant was operated by Westinghouse Electric Corporation.

Also, it's the former sire of Bettis Field: http://members.tripod.com/airfields_freeman/PA/Airfields_PA_SW.htm#bettis]]>

BEV

Fishers Island Radar Cross Section (RCS) Measurement Range

BEV

Fishers Island Radar Cross Section (RCS) Measurement Range
[Info] [GM] [BM] [YM]
By: kjfitz
@ 2008-05-24 14:19:41
The Fishers Island RCS Measurement Range consists of a mobile radar truck, two radar shore sites, and a calibration tower. This facility, in conjunction with the SSTP, supports the test and evaluation of electromagnetic sensors in an open ocean environment. The Range is equipped with a mobile, coherent, stepped frequency instrumentation radar system capable of making full polarization scattering matrix measurement across the frequency range of 2-18 GHz. The radar system is equipped with a video tracking capability for measurements of dynamic targets.]]> http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/fishers-island-radar-cross-section-rcs-measurement-range/ http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/fishers-island-radar-cross-section-rcs-measurement-range/ Sat, 24 May 2008 14:19:41 -0700 http://virtualglobetrotting.com/map/fishers-island-radar-cross-section-rcs-measurement-range/ 41.25561800 -72.00882300