Detecting the mythical superman (Or a 100kg sack of meat)

Lana Lang (Because no one really gives Lana enough love) is the newest recipient of the superhero lottery. Boasting an impressive repertoire of powers, yes, but there are only a couple of ones we care about. The ability of flight and superspeed.

This lethal combination has our intrepid heroine the most sought after weapon in any arsenal, being compared rather favorably to a tactical nuke. The idea being that no one could detect if she was deployed until after the effects are witnessed. But, is this really the case?

Some very interesting reading to be had here and here, but nothing strongly conclusive or that truly agrees.

What I'm looking for is strong proof of whether current technology can in any way detect a human flying at >3000m altitude at supersonic speeds (lower bound of 1195 km/hr or Mach 1).

If, for the sake of hard science answers, it is easier to assume a 100kg sack of meat traveling at those speeds rather than a person, you may substitute as such (The sack of meat cares not about forces or breathing after all). Also, if it is easier to use an upper bound speed, for whatever reason, you can assume the upper bound of 4939.2km/hr or Mach 4.

posted about 7 years ago

Naryna‭

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