First flight photo of the ‘Flying Saucer’ Super-Constellation

September 1, 1956 – First flight photo of the strangest shape in the air — “The Flying Saucer” Super-Constellation now under test by Lockheed for development of the US “Early Warning” system. The plane’s peekaboo bonnet measures more than 30 feet across and is crammed with long-range radar equipment. Tests have shown the saucer-shaped superstructure has only a negligible effect upon stability and the general handling of the plane.