Boeing WB-29 of the 55th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, McClellan Air Force Base, Calif., on April 30, 1952. Note the air sampling scoop on the aft upper fuselage. The "Bug Catcher" was used to test for radiation levels after surface nuclear weapon tests. The ground crew is hosing off the No. 4 engine during radioactive decontamination (note the sign). Probably a procedure test since the ground crew isn't wearing any protective gear. (U.S. Air Force photo)
Boeing WB-29, originally B-29-25-MO (S/N 42-65281), of the 53rd Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron approaching a storm. Note this aircraft also equipped with a "Bug Catcher." (U.S. Air Force photo)
Close-up of Boeing WB-29 "Typhoon Goon," originally B-29-95-BW (S/N 45-21838), of the 514th Very Long Range Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, Guam. (U.S. Air Force photo)
WB-29s were modified from production B-29s for weather reconnaissance missions. Besides conducting standard weather data gathering flights, WB-29s were also used as "Hurricane Hunters." The aircraft would fly into the eye of the hurricane ortyphoon to gather weather data.
Some WB-29s were fitted with air sampling scoops to test for airborne radiation levels after nuclear weapon tests conducted above ground.
