Science Past from the issue of November 3, 1962

PAST-SEEKING CAMERA — A camera that can “see” what already has happened as well as what is happening may have provided the United States with information on missile bases in Cuba…. Special photographic plates are sensitive to heat (infrared) radiation and the past presence of objects is shown differentially. This is only one of the many unique photo-devices developed for the defense of the United States. Aerial photographs taken before “quarantine” [by President Kennedy of offensive weapons entering Cuba] using a camera with telescopic lens, probably at altitudes above 60,000 feet over Cuban jungles, clearly show launching pads and intermediate range missiles obviously of an offensive military nature. See on this week’s front cover a picture of a medium range ballistic missile base in Cuba.