Stealth bomber in flight on Google Maps (google.com)

Article summary

The article appears to be about a stealth bomber visible on Google Maps. The comments suggest that the plane was likely flying low and slow, possibly on approach to land at Whiteman AFB, which is nearby. The image shows the plane's shape and engine exhaust plumes, which would be visible in infrared and optical wavelengths. The exact circumstances of the photo are unclear, but it has sparked discussion about the limitations of stealth technology.

Main themes

• Stealth technology
• Imaging satellites
• Aerial photography
• Military aviation
• Radar detection
• Infrared imaging

What commenters say

• Stealth technology does not make planes invisible, but rather reduces their visibility to radar and other detection methods.
• The anti-reflective paint used on stealth planes is only effective on the underside, making them visible from above.
• Imaging satellites could potentially be used to detect and track stealth planes, especially if they are flying low and slow.
• The distortion in the Google Maps image is likely due to the plane's motion, rather than the satellite's orbital motion.
• The plane's engine exhaust plumes would be visible in infrared, making it difficult to hide its heat signature.
• The photo may have been taken during a routine flight or approach to land, rather than during a covert operation.
• The discussion highlights the limitations and potential vulnerabilities of stealth technology.
• The use of imaging satellites and other technologies could potentially compromise the effectiveness of stealth planes.