Part 2/7:
Area 51 officially came into existence in 1942, starting as a modest aerodrome with two runways. However, it truly gained prominence during the Cold War. The United States sought to establish air superiority against the Soviet Union, particularly in reconnaissance missions. The infamous U-2 spy plane emerged from this effort, designed to fly higher than any Soviet aircraft could reach, thereby evading radar detection.
Choosing Area 51 for testing was a strategic decision. The site, known as Groom Lake, was isolated—over 100 kilometers from Las Vegas—which provided the necessary secrecy for military operations. This location allowed for a combination of high-altitude tests and nuclear weapon trials, keeping the public at a safe distance.