Vandenberg AFB and space authority partner to bring cosmos to California

March 11, 2010 -- The birthplace of the Air Force rocket program could soon serve as a launch pad for an interactive museum designed to inspire visitors to reach for the stars.

The Air Force is partnering with the California Space Center to develop a museum on 71 acres of non-excess land at Vandenberg AFB, Califorina.

The proposed Space Center, planned under the Air Force's Enhanced Use Lease authority, will offer hands-on exhibits and exclusive space launch viewing capabilities. It could also stimulate the local economy. The California Space Authority, a nonprofit corporation representing the interests of California's national security, civil and commercial space enterprise and projected Space Center developer, estimated the museum and launch viewing site could draw more than 200,000 tourists per year and spur job creation.


Ms. Kathleen Ferguson, Deputy Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, hailed the project as innovative and an example of strong relationship-building between the AF and development communities. "The fact that CSA approached Vandenberg AFB with this one-of-a-kind opportunity speaks to a growing enthusiasm for EULs specifically and innovative public-private partnerships in general," she said.

The EUL program is a major part of the Air Force Real Property Agency's mission to manage, acquire and dispose of Air Force real property worldwide. To date, AFRPA has more than 30 EUL projects in various stages of development at installations throughout the United States and its territories.

Mr. Bob Moore, AFRPA Director, pointed out the benefits of the project to all parties. "This development brings the public and private sectors together to create a legacy of learning, all while returning value directly back to airmen and their families," he said.

As the Air Force Real Property Center of Excellence, AFRPA delivers innovative solutions to strategically support the Air Force's people, property, and asset management needs for today and tomorrow.

Karla J. Saia
Air Force Real Property Agency Public Affairs
210-395-9543