Guardians of the Orbit
Exploring the pivotal role of Schriever Space Force Base in safeguarding Earth's orbital domain and advancing space operations.
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History
Genesis: Falcon Air Force Station
The foundation for Schriever Space Force Base was laid with groundbreaking in May 1983. Initially conceived as the Consolidated Space Operations Center (CSOC) during its development phase, it was designated Falcon Air Force Station upon becoming operational. The 2nd Space Wing was activated at Peterson AFB in July 1985, and by September of that year, its personnel and operations relocated to Falcon Air Force Station, occupying 12 new buildings.
Operational Control & Redesignation
The wing assumed operational control of the Air Force Satellite Control Network, with a phased system turnover beginning in October 1987. In June 1988, Falcon Air Force Station was redesignated as Falcon Air Force Base, signifying its growing importance.
Transition to Space Focus
A significant organizational shift occurred on 30 January 1992, when the 2nd Space Wing inactivated, and the 50th Tactical Fighter Wing was redesignated as the 50th Space Wing, activating at Falcon AFB. This marked a clear pivot towards space-centric operations.
Honoring a Pioneer
On 5 June 1998, Falcon Air Force Base was renamed Schriever Air Force Base. This renaming honored retired General Bernard Schriever, a visionary who pioneered the American ballistic missile programs. Schriever AFB became the only Air Force base named after a living Air Force veteran.
Evolution to Space Force
Reflecting the establishment of a new branch of the armed forces, the base underwent its latest transformation on 26 July 2021, becoming Schriever Space Force Base. This change underscored its integral role in the United States Space Force's mission. More recently, in November 2024, it was selected to host Space Delta 15, further solidifying its strategic importance.
Role and Operations
Core Mission
Schriever Space Force Base serves as a critical hub for the United States Space Force. Named in honor of General Bernard Schriever, a key figure in the development of American ballistic missile programs, the base is home to the 50th Space Wing. Its primary function is to provide command and control for over 170 Department of Defense warning, navigational, and communications satellites, ensuring the continuous operation of vital space assets.
Strategic Operations
The base hosts significant operational centers, including the Missile Defense Integration and Operations Center and the U.S. Air Force Warfare Center. Notably, Building 400 at Schriever SFB serves as the main control point for the Global Positioning System (GPS), a cornerstone of modern navigation and timing worldwide.
Personnel and Infrastructure
Schriever SFB is a substantial installation, staffed by over 8,100 active duty, guard, reserve personnel, civilian employees, and contractors. This large workforce supports the complex operations and infrastructure required to manage and protect critical space capabilities.
Based Units
United States Space Force
Schriever SFB hosts several key Space Force units, integral to its command and control mission:
- Space Base Delta 1
- 50th Mission Support Group
- 21st Medical Group (GSU)
- Space Operations Command (SpOC)
- Space Delta 6 (Cyber Operations)
- Space Delta 8 (Space Launch and Missile Warning)
- Space Delta 9 (Space Domain Awareness and Space Battle Management)
- Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM)
- Space Delta 11 (Space Warfighting Operations)
- Space Delta 12 (Test and Evaluation)
United States Air Force
Elements of the Air Force Reserve Command also operate from Schriever:
- Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC)
- Tenth Air Force
- 310th Space Wing (including Operations Group, Mission Support Group, 710th Operations Group)
- 926th Wing (Operations Group)
- Tenth Air Force
Other DoD Components
The base also supports units from other branches and DoD agencies:
- United States Army
- Colorado Army National Guard (100th Missile Defense Brigade)
- United States Navy
- US Naval Observatory (Alternate Master Clock)
- Department of Defense
- United States Space Command (Joint Task ForceโSpace Defense, National Space Defense Center)
- United States Strategic Command (Joint Functional Component Command for Integrated Missile Defense)
- Missile Defense Agency
- Missile Defense Integration and Operations Center
- National Reconnaissance Office
- NRO Operations Squadron
Related Information
Spaceflight
Explore the broader context of space exploration and operations:
- Spaceflight Portal
Satellite Systems
Learn about the technologies managed and supported:
- Communications satellites
- Milstar
- Satellite navigation systems
Nearby Installations
Discover other significant military facilities in the region:
- Peterson Space Force Base
- Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station
- Fort Carson
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References
References
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not official U.S. Space Force information. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for official military documentation or direct consultation with Space Force personnel. Always refer to official sources for the most current and accurate information regarding military installations and operations.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.