Acoustic mirrors

During the late 1920s and early 30s the RAF base at Denge was used as a site for three experimental acoustic mirrors. This shot shows the 30' mirror and the 200' mirror is in the extras. The idea was that the shape of the mirror "focussed" the sound of approaching aircraft to a microphone in the centre of the dish (or wall for the horizontal mirror). Although this  "sort of" worked radar was invented in 1932 so the experiments ceased. The mirrors are owned by English Heritage and there are guided tours to them. Otherwise they are inaccessible.

The other shot in the extras, the wall with slots, is part of Lade Fort or Dungeness No.2 Battery, Built in 1798 to help keep our French neighbours in check it was one of four small forts constructed in the area and there was also a redoubt at Dungeness Point. The earthworks are still plainly visible and the coastguard cottages built in the centre are used by the Dungeness Bird Observatory. Lade Fort is near the acoustic mirrors.

Two sites related to conflict; don't say I never give you anything!

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