This only proves that not only were the Russians fully aware of Groom Lake, but also that they had no need to hide that knowledge from the American government. It is also known as Area 51.
Groom Lake is a dry lakebed most of the year, and as such, affords an excellent natural airport.
Located about 95 miles northwest of Las Vegas, NV, Groom Lake is in the middle of the Nellis AFB Bombing and Gunnery Range, making Groom Lake a very secluded location. Since that time, virtually every top-secret American aircraft was tested at the Groom Lake facility. Although an open secret for over thirty years, even today the US government still refuses to acknowledge the existence of the base. However, there can be no question that the Soviets not only knew of the existence of the facilities in 1988, but also clearly had known for years. The image was taken early in the morning when the length of the shadows could be used to estimate the heights of various buildings and when the winds were still calm, eliminating the effects of dust.