Science on Tap: U-2 Dragon Lady: 70 Years at 70,000 Feet
The arrival of the legendary U‑2 Dragon Lady at the National Museum is more than a milestone—it’s an opportunity to reflect on one of the most remarkable aircraft in aviation history. For seven decades, the U‑2 has operated at the edge of space, quietly shaping national security, scientific discovery, and technological innovation.
In this engaging talk, Toni Hiley explores the U‑2’s extraordinary operational history, its unique technical capabilities, and the people who made sustained high‑altitude flight possible. From Cold War reconnaissance to modern missions, the Dragon Lady’s story is one of adaptability, precision, and endurance.
Just as importantly, this presentation looks forward—examining how the U‑2 continues to inspire today’s engineers, scientists, and innovators, and why its legacy still matters at 70,000 feet.
Grab a drink, settle in, and experience aviation history from a whole new altitude
EVENT DETAILS-SUMMER HOURS
- Friday, July 17, 2026 | Doors Open at 6:00 pm | Presentation at 6:30 pm
- Location: National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
- Admission: $12 per person
- Requirement: Must be 21+ to attend. An adult must accompany younger guests.
Toni Hiley is an Albuquerque native with more than two decades of experience interpreting and preserving the history of intelligence for public audiences. She served for twenty years directing operations at the CIA Museum, where she helped shape the way complex, often classified stories are translated into compelling, accessible exhibits.
Now a consultant specializing in museum best practices, Toni is passionate about sharing the history of intelligence to educate, inspire, and engage the public. She currently serves as Chair of the National Atomic Museum Foundation at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, where she continues to champion thoughtful storytelling at the intersection of history, science, and national security.
