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When was the last time YOU broke the sound barrier?

Description: NACA Test Pilot George Cooper was incredibly accomplished — he flew 81 combat missions in Europe during World War II, including a mission over Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge in Brussels, without any hits or battle damage. During his time at Ames, Cooper repeatedly broke the sound barrier, making him one of the most remarkable pilots in both the history of Ames and the study of aeronautics! He is pictured alongside Smith DeFrance, Ames' first and longest-serving director.

 

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Credit: NASA

Image Number: ARC-1969-A-16539

Date: September 27, 1951

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Uploaded on September 27, 2025
Taken on September 27, 1951