P-38 Lightning - Santa Barbara, '60

Lockheed P-38 Lightning F-5, was a photo-reconnaissance model used in Europe and the Far East. Pilots loved the airplane for its maneuverability, high-altitude capabilities and long flight endurance, which could reach almost 12 hours with a full external fuel load. Mark Hurd Aerial Surveys, of Goleta, CA., used its high altitude capability. Jim's job was a NOAA contract to study the atmosphere. A meterorologist rode in the jumpseat taking air samples and monitoring instruments, while dad climbed up to 30,000' in a triangular pattern- only in bad weather on the "gauges!"

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