The exterior of Hughes Research Laboratories where rock bits were test-drilled in Culver City, California in the 1940s. Transcribed from note taped to back of photo: "Rock bits are test-drilled in the laboratory under conditions that duplicate, as far as is possible in the laboratory, those encountered in actual drilling. As a result, rotational speeds, loads, and fluid volume are closely controlled. The rig operator occupies a splash-proof booth above the 'cellar floor.' The instruments on his control panel provide for application and measurement of variable axial loading on the drilling bit up to 100,000 lbs., variable rotational speeds up to 400 rpm, measurement of bit penetration over a total vertical travel of 5 feet at rates up to 180 ft. per hour, and torque. On the panel, also, are several controls for the operation of mud pump and other accessory equipment."

The black and white, aerial view of Howard Hughes' Lockheed 14 aircraft performing its final landing on the Round the World flight at Floyd Bennett Airport, New York.

Hughes Helicopters Division of Summa Corporation in Culver City, California.

Description given with photograph: "Hughes sets new transcontinental transport mark. Floyd Bennet Field, NY--- Howard Hughes, millionaire flier, setting his famous round-the-world transport plane down here, early August 20th, after a record-smashing flight from Los Angeles. Hughes and three companions completed the trip in 10 hours 32 minutes and 20 seconds, shattering the record of 11 hours and five minutes set four years ago by Tommy Tomlinson. The flight was made most of the way in the substratosphere at an average altitude of 17, 000 feet. Credit Line ACME."