The Northrop M2-F2 was a revolutionary unmanned research vehicle designed to explore advanced flight techniques, particularly for re-entry vehicles and space exploration. Developed by Northrop Corporation, it was part of a series of lifting body designs that aimed to improve control during atmospheric re-entry. On May 10, 1967, during a test flight at Edwards Air Force Base in California, the M2-F2 experienced difficulties during landing. Piloted remotely, its descent ended dramatically when the vehicle crashed, rendering it a total loss. The incident, captured on film, showcased the experimental challenges involved in the era's aeronautical innovation.

The crash attracted attention beyond aerospace circles, leading to its incorporation into popular culture. Author Martin Caidin took inspiration from the accident, incorporating themes of technology and transformation into his novel 'Cyborg.' The book delves into the merging of man and machine, reflecting the technological advancements and philosophical questions of the mid-20th century. Subsequently, 'Cyborg' was adapted into the television series 'The Six Million Dollar Man,' which aired from 1974 to 1978. The series became iconic, influencing technology and media representations of cyborgs and human augmentation.

The legacy of the M2-F2 crash stretches beyond its immediate technical implications, as it served to encapsulate the era’s fascination with technology and its potential to reshape human life. The television show popularized the idea of technological enhancement, resonating with audiences and fostering a greater interest in both aerospace developments and the concept of humanity's blending with technology. The narrative created a cultural archetype that explored human resilience and the ethical implications of technological evolution.