The pics (various) of these sort of events are impressive. Not to sure about them showing kites going supersonic though.
My understanding of this phenomenon <sp?> is that the effect is caused by the rapid condensation of the air as it transits the various wave shock fronts that travel along the aircraft's body. The sudden pressure changes, from high to lo, cause the condensation "clouds". . . don't they?
I've seen Canberras with these condensation clouds forming and the dear old Cranberrie is certainly not a supersonic kite.
