I have just come across this thread, and I am fascinated by the information about the
PR Canberra's. I hope you do not mind me barging in!
My only connection with the aircraft is that of watching them practice night flash photography over Castlemartin range in West Wales, UK. (Now D113). Overview from ONC E-1 (8-GSGS) here:
http://sdrv.ms/QRMyLu
The aircraft ran in from the east and popped their cartridges over the western part of the range (over land), and then did a left turn (usually) to clear the area. I'm not sure whether they came back round again.
Like you, it would be great to hear from any aircrew who flew these sorties from the 1960s to the 1980s. I am writing a history of the range, and would love to hear first hand accounts of such sorties, and a photo or two of the range would be a major treat! Do photographs exist of flashes being used?
I have had some info from RF-4C aircrew who might have used Castlemartin for the same purpose, but the more the merrier!
You could tell the difference (in the dark) between the Canberras and the RF-4s in two ways:
1. The nav/anticollision lights;
2. The position of the bursting cartridges. The Canberra's flashes were below the aircraft and those of the RF-4 were always at the same height as the aircraft.
The RF-4s often used to start in daylight! The Canberras never did - which seemed sensible to me!
Castlemartin was also used during Royal Flush Competitions, and any info about these sorties from anyone would be most welcome. Likewise if I can help you in any way, please ask.
MTIA