NASA Mulls Reactivating One of the Last SR-71 Blackbirds

The SR-71 Blackbird, a Lockheed reconnaissance jet that still holds the record for the quickest New York-London crossing, is noted for its extreme speed and stealth design. The U.S. Air Force used the type from 1966 until 1998, while NASA continued operating the last two airframes for another year. Recent indications suggest NASA is evaluating a fresh purpose for one of the surviving aircraft after it was withdrawn from its research facility.

The aircraft, nicknamed "Habu" after a Japanese pit viper, was also among the first to feature a reduced radar cross-section. The story includes a personal anecdote about fuel odor experienced while standing beneath the wing.