NOVA Season 11 Episode 12 Eyes Over China

In the season 11 finale of NOVA, titled "Eyes over China," viewers are taken on a thrilling adventure through the skies above China in the 1980s. The episode focuses on the specially-adapted American-made U-2 spy planes that were used by the CIA to covertly monitor China's military and industrial activities during this time period.

Narrated by NOVA presenter David Macaulay, the episode takes viewers on a journey to discover how the U-2 planes were used for espionage purposes and what the intelligence gathered from these missions revealed about China's nuclear capabilities. Using a combination of archival footage and reenactments, viewers will get an up-close look at the technical specifications of the U-2 planes and the incredible risks that were taken by the pilots involved in the missions.

Throughout the episode, we meet several key figures involved in the U-2 program and hear firsthand accounts of the challenges they faced. We are introduced to the CIA's top U-2 pilot, who describes the incredible physical demands of flying the high-altitude plane and the need for a specially-designed suit to protect pilots from the extreme cold. We also hear from the CIA's top China analyst, who discusses the importance of the intelligence gathered from these missions in shaping US foreign policy towards China.

The U-2 planes were uniquely suited to gathering intelligence over China due to their ability to fly at up to 70,000 feet – well above the range of most Chinese radar systems. However, this also meant that the planes were incredibly vulnerable to attack, as they could only carry a limited amount of armor and defensive equipment. The episode explores the dangers faced by U-2 pilots, including several instances where the planes were shot down by Chinese air defenses.

Despite these risks, the U-2 program proved to be an invaluable asset for the US government, providing key intelligence on Chinese nuclear arms and other military activities. The episode concludes by exploring the legacy of the U-2 program and what it reveals about the complex relationship between the US and China during the Cold War.

Overall, "Eyes over China" offers a fascinating glimpse into a little-known chapter of Cold War history and sheds light on the incredible risks and rewards of aerial espionage. Whether you are a history buff or simply intrigued by high-stakes spy missions, this episode of NOVA is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.