Buckley Space Force Base plays a vital role in space operations out in Aurora, Colorado. You’ll find it supporting missile warning systems and handling space surveillance missions.
The base made the jump from Air Force to Space Force as America ramped up its space defense game. That transition feels like a sign of the times, doesn’t it?
Buckley SFB sits in Aurora, just east of Denver, with the Rocky Mountains looming in the background. The location isn’t just pretty—it’s strategic, giving easy access to major roads and keeping things secure for sensitive missions.
You can get there using the main highways that connect to Denver. It’s also a quick trip from Denver International Airport, which is handy for military folks and contractors flying in from all over.
Colorado’s altitude and mostly good weather help the advanced radar and satellite systems do their job. The Rocky Mountain region also offers some natural advantages for keeping an eye on what’s happening in space.
Space Base Delta 2 (SBD2) runs the show at Buckley, providing daily support to Space Delta 4 Missile Warning Delta. The 460th Space Wing has its headquarters here and keeps the missile warning network running.
The base covers a lot—aviation alert operations, training, and refueling. Personnel at Buckley work closely with Combatant Commands worldwide, using advanced surveillance systems.
Space Force teams here operate infrared detection satellites and missile warning systems. These tools are a core part of national defense, monitoring threats from space 24/7.
Back in 1938, the Army Air Corps set up what would become Buckley as Demolition Bombing Range-Lowry Auxiliary Field. Originally, it worked as a bombing range, landing field, and ammo storage during World War II.
Things changed over time. In 1941, the base switched to Buckley Field, expanding its role in military aviation.
The biggest shift came with the move to Space Force control. This change showed just how important space had become as a military domain. In 2021, they renamed the base, officially putting the focus on space operations.
Buckley Space Force Base stands as a key piece of America’s space defense, running advanced missile warning systems and handling space surveillance. The 460th Space Wing leads operations here, with units constantly monitoring global threats and protecting national security.
Buckley acts as a cornerstone in the Space Force’s defense network. It sits in Colorado and supports missions across more than 11 million acres of airspace in five states.
Mission Delta 4 works out of Buckley as part of Space Delta 4, managing detection systems that keep watch for threats around the clock. These units identify dangers and coordinate with other military installations.
Specialized squadrons like the 11th and 2nd Space Warning Squadrons analyze satellite data to provide early warning for the continental U.S.
Buckley’s spot near the Rockies is ideal for space surveillance. The base also supports aircraft operations and serves as a refueling stop for Department of Defense flights—even Air Force One.
The Overhead Persistent Infrared Battlespace Awareness Center (OBAC) is probably Buckley’s most important facility. OBAC processes real-time data from the Space-Based Infrared System constellation to spot ballistic missile launches anywhere on the planet.
OBAC operators watch for infrared signatures nonstop, catching potential threats within seconds. The center uses advanced tech to track missile trajectories and space activities worldwide.
The facility keeps direct lines open to the Pentagon and other command centers. When they detect a threat, OBAC personnel alert the right agencies immediately using secure channels.
Guardians at OBAC go through serious training to handle the detection equipment. Their work underpins America’s missile defense and aims to protect civilians from attacks.
Buckley hosts several major military units, all working together to protect American interests both in space and on the ground. Space Delta 4 leads missile warning, while the Colorado Air National Guard chips in with air defense and support.
Space Delta 4 is the main missile warning unit at Buckley. They operate satellite systems that spot missile launches worldwide within seconds.
This unit manages two big satellite programs. The Defense Support Program uses older satellites to detect heat from rocket launches, while the Space-Based Infrared System brings better coverage and more detail.
Key Responsibilities:
Space Delta 4 connects directly with NORAD and other defense networks. When they spot a missile launch, they send out warnings in minutes, protecting both military and civilians.
The unit has hundreds of operators and analysts. These folks get specialized training on satellites and threat assessment, and many work in secure, always-on facilities.
The Colorado Air National Guard operates at Buckley through the 140th Air Wing. This wing flies F-16 fighter jets and handles air defense for the Colorado region.
The 140th Air Wing keeps about 18 F-16C/D Fighting Falcons ready to respond to airspace threats. They also pitch in on homeland defense missions across the western U.S.
Guard members usually serve part-time but train regularly with active duty. Many juggle civilian jobs while keeping their military skills sharp. The unit can activate for emergencies or overseas deployments.
Primary Missions:
The wing works closely with other Buckley units. Fighter pilots team up with Space Delta 4 during drills, which helps protect Buckley’s air and space assets.
The Army Aviation Support Facility keeps helicopter operations running at Buckley. They maintain aircraft for Army units in Colorado.
Staff at the facility handle maintenance and logistics for several helicopter types. Army crews use these choppers for training and operational missions. The facility also stores parts and gear needed for repairs.
This setup lets military branches share resources efficiently. Army helicopters can use Buckley’s airfield and support, saving costs and boosting readiness.
The Aerospace Data Facility-Colorado processes space surveillance data at Buckley. Analysts here handle information from satellites and ground sensors all over the world.
They track thousands of objects in orbit. Analysts identify new satellites, debris, and threats to U.S. space assets.
Data from this facility helps both military and civilian space operations. The team coordinates with NASA and private companies to prevent collisions and supports space traffic management and planning.
Space Base Delta 2 acts as the main garrison command at Buckley, handling support for over 14,000 people—active duty, Guard, Reserve, and civilians. The unit falls under Space Operations Command and coordinates complex missions like missile warning, space surveillance, and communications.
Space Base Delta 2 works as a garrison command in the Space Force, reporting to Space Operations Command. The unit got its new name in May 2022, reflecting how space ops are evolving.
Colonel Eamon Murray took command in July 2025. The structure supports a big joint operation, with 3,000 active duty members from every branch.
The base also hosts 4,000 Guard and Reservists, plus 2,400 civilians and 2,500 contractors. This mix creates a total force operation focused on defense priorities.
Space Base Delta 2 teams up with over 110 base partners in the area. They also work with four commonwealth international allies, which broadens their reach.
The delta manages installation support for several critical missions. They handle air operations, missile warning, space surveillance, and communications across the base.
Space Base Delta 2 backs up Space Delta 4, which does global missile tracking and warning. This partnership is a big part of America’s space defense.
The unit sends Space Professionals around the world to help combatant commanders on war missions. These deployments show how the Space Force is growing its joint military role.
The 460th Medical Group handles medical support, keeping everyone ready to deploy. They cover aerospace medicine, public health, dental, and family support to maintain readiness.
The delta adds nearly $1 billion a year to the local economy and serves about 88,000 retirees, veterans, and dependents in the region.
Buckley Space Force Base runs through six main mission partners called the “Big Six,” creating a pretty unique joint military setup. This coalition brings multiple services and international partners together under one roof.
The Big Six mission partners keep Buckley running. Space Delta 4 leads with missile warning and surveillance.
The Colorado Air National Guard’s 140th Air Wing provides tactical airlift and support. They keep aircraft and personnel ready for state and federal missions.
The Aerospace Data Facility-Colorado processes intelligence from space-based sensors, handling massive satellite data every day.
The Army Aviation Support Facility supports helicopter ops and maintenance. Military staff use this facility for training and readiness.
The Air Reserve Personnel Center manages records for Air Force Reserve members nationwide, handling assignments and career management for thousands.
Each partner brings its own expertise to Buckley’s mission.
Buckley really is a coalition base, with international partnerships in play. Four commonwealth countries have personnel and operations here.
The base houses over 3,500 active duty members from all branches. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines, and Space Force folks work side by side.
National Guard and Reserve units add another 4,000 military members. These part-timers provide surge capacity and unique skills.
Coalition partners share intelligence, training, and operational resources. This international teamwork strengthens space domain awareness worldwide.
The joint setup lets different services bring their strengths. Space ops, cyber warfare, and missile warning all benefit from this mix.
Contractors and civilian employees add almost 5,000 more people, keeping daily operations moving.
Buckley Space Force Base is home to 117 different tenant units. These units support mission-critical operations for several military branches and government agencies.
The Air Reserve Personnel Center handles records for thousands of Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve personnel. Meanwhile, the Navy Reserve Center Denver provides training facilities for naval reservists in Colorado.
The Air Reserve Personnel Center moved to Buckley Space Force Base in August 2011, leaving its previous spot at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver. This major tenant operates from a dedicated building designed for its mission.
ARPC manages personnel records for both the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command. The team keeps detailed databases on assignments, promotions, benefits, and career tracking.
They run the virtual Personnel Center – Guard and Reserve, a web portal that lets Air Guardsmen and Reservists access their records remotely. Service members can update their info, check their military files, and submit requests online.
Every month, ARPC staff process thousands of personnel actions. They handle retirement paperwork, manage medical records, and coordinate transfers between units all over the United States.
The Navy Reserve Center Denver acts as the main training hub for naval reserve units in the Colorado metro area. This tenant operates independently but uses base infrastructure and support from Space Base Delta 2.
Naval reservists gather here for monthly drill weekends. The center offers classroom space, admin offices, and specialized training equipment to keep units up to Navy readiness standards.
The facility supports several Navy Reserve units, including construction battalions, intelligence units, and logistics teams. Each unit sets its own training schedule, but they share facilities and resources.
Reservists from Colorado and nearby states travel here for required training. The location is handy for those living in Denver, Colorado Springs, and other Front Range communities.
Space Delta 4 stands out as one of the most important tenant units at Buckley Space Force Base. They operate the Defense Support Program and Space-Based Infrared System constellations for global missile warning.
The Aerospace Data Facility-Colorado runs as a multi-mission ground station for worldwide defense operations. Staff here collect, analyze, and share intelligence information with multiple agencies.
The 140th Wing of the Colorado Air National Guard keeps a strong presence on base. This unit flies various aircraft and supports both state and federal missions.
NIOC Colorado serves as the Naval Intelligence Operations Center for the region. The unit coordinates naval intelligence and supports fleet operations from its Rocky Mountain base.
The 460th Medical Group looks after healthcare for everyone stationed at Buckley. They run medical clinics, dental offices, and emergency services for the entire base.
The Colorado Air National Guard runs the 140th Wing at Buckley Space Force Base. Over 1,600 personnel support critical defense missions here.
COANG units provide fighter aircraft operations, space-based missile warning, and engineering support across several locations.
The 140th Wing answers to three major Air Force commands, each with different roles. The 120th Fighter Squadron flies F-16C+ Fighting Falcons for Air Combat Command.
These F-16 pilots take on both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. They fly offensive and defensive missions and handle close air support. The squadron also provides Air Sovereignty Alert to defend the Front Range 24/7.
The 233rd Space Group manages the Air Force’s only strategic mobile ground system for missile warning. This unit gives the National Command Authority instant missile warning and space launch detection worldwide.
More than 300 airmen in the group operate survivable systems during all phases of a possible nuclear attack.
The 240th Civil Engineering Flight handles construction and engineering missions around the globe. This 40-person team specializes in planning, design, and construction management. Members deploy year-round to support civil engineering at various military sites.
COANG has both federal and state missions based at Buckley Space Force Base. The organization responds to state emergencies and stays ready for federal combat deployments.
Recent deployments highlight COANG’s wide operational reach. In 2024, the unit sent over 120 personnel as a lead wing for major operations.
Past combat deployments included tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Southwest Asia since 2003.
State mission capabilities cover wildfire response through Task Force FireGuard. COANG intelligence experts analyze environmental data during wildfires. The unit works with the National Weather Service and National Interagency Fire Center for emergency wildfire support.
COANG keeps personnel at several Colorado locations beyond Buckley. These include Greeley Air National Guard Station, Peterson Space Force Base, and Airburst Range near Fort Carson.
This spread helps COANG support community, state, and national security needs.
The 460th Space Wing anchors Space Force operations at Buckley SFB. They manage vital missile warning systems and space surveillance tech.
The base blends Air Force and Space Force units, supporting over 80 military partners from different branches.
The 460th Space Wing leads Space Force operations at Buckley SFB. They run global missile warning systems and infrared detection satellites to protect national security.
Space Delta 4 handles space surveillance from the base. The team tracks objects in Earth’s orbit and watches for threats to satellites and space assets.
Buckley SFB hosts advanced satellite communication systems that connect military units worldwide. These systems give real-time data to commanders in different time zones and combat areas.
The base runs 24-hour mission control centers with Space Force personnel on watch. These specialists monitor space sensors and coordinate with other military sites when threats pop up.
Key Space Force capabilities at Buckley SFB:
Space Force personnel at Buckley SFB work side by side with Air Force units stationed there. The 460th Space Wing coordinates with Air Force squadrons to share intel and operational support.
The base encourages cross-service collaboration with Army, Navy, and Marine Corps units. Space Force operators deliver satellite communications and missile warning data to these partners.
Joint training exercises happen regularly between Space Force and Air Force members. These programs help everyone understand how space assets support ground and air missions.
Buckley SFB links up with nearby installations like Peterson Space Force Base and Schriever Space Force Base. This network forms a unified space operations command for Colorado.
The base keeps partnerships with 80+ military organizations on-site and at remote locations. Space Force units provide essential space-based services that partners rely on for mission success.
Buckley SFB enforces strict security protocols. All visitors must get passes through the Visitor Control Center.
The base uses enhanced security and specific gate access points for entry.
The Mississippi Gate acts as the main 24-hour entry point for Buckley SFB. Visitors can use “S. Vail St. and E. Mississippi Ave” in navigation apps like Apple Maps.
The Buckley Visitor Center sits at the Mississippi Gate. Staff handle walk-in services on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The center closes on weekends, federal holidays, and Space Base Delta 2 down days.
Visitors should plan to arrive during operating hours to avoid delays. While the gate is open 24/7, visitor processing only happens during center hours.
Since January 3, 2025, Buckley SFB has used tougher security measures for all visitors. The Trusted Traveler Program is suspended indefinitely under these rules.
All visitors need a base visitor pass, even if they’re with military ID card holders. This applies to everyone seeking access, including family and dependents.
To arrange access, visitors can call the Visitor Control Center at 720-847-9431. Staff will explain requirements and steps for each visit.
These new security measures aim to keep everyone and every facility safe at Buckley SFB. Visitors should expect extra screening time and bring proper ID that meets current standards.
Buckley Space Force Base offers a full range of support systems for military members and their families. The base operates several service centers, provides different housing options, and runs educational programs to support community well-being and mission readiness.
The Military and Family Readiness Center is the main support hub for base personnel. It’s in Building 606 and helps Department of Defense members and their families with essential services.
Staff provide information and referrals for a range of needs. They run financial education programs to help families manage their budgets.
Volunteer opportunities connect people with meaningful service projects.
Key Services Available:
The Panther Den Community Center hosts recreational and social activities. You can call (720) 847-7197 for program info and reservations.
The 460th Mission Support Group keeps base operations running through several departments. These include security forces, civil engineering, personnel services, and contracting support.
The Military Housing Office guides all incoming personnel. New arrivals must check in here before signing any lease or rental contract.
Housing counselors walk families through their options. They explain the differences between on-base and off-base living and share info about local neighborhoods and schools.
Housing Support Includes:
Base housing options depend on rank and family size. Single personnel usually get dorm rooms, while families may qualify for housing units.
Off-base housing allowances help cover civilian rental costs. The housing office keeps up-to-date info on Denver area market rates.
Family Child Care programs help working military parents. The base keeps a directory of certified child care providers who meet military standards.
Educational resources go beyond basic childcare. Military families get help with school enrollment and academic planning.
Staff assist with transfers between school districts during moves.
The base works with local schools to make transitions smoother. Kids of military members get priority for enrollment in nearby districts.
Educational Benefits:
Family readiness programs prepare relatives for deployment cycles. Workshops cover communication and stress management. Spouses learn about support networks during separations.
The center teams up with community partners to expand services. Local organizations offer extra resources that strengthen military programs and boost family stability.
Buckley Space Force Base drives Aurora’s economy—and honestly, a good chunk of Colorado’s too. In 2024, the base pumped about $2.6 billion into the local economy. It’s not just a military installation; Buckley keeps close ties with local businesses and organizations, stretching its impact well past its gates.
In 2024, Buckley Space Force Base delivered some serious economic benefits to Aurora and the state. The base’s $2.6 billion impact actually jumped up $50 million from the previous year.
This money comes from all sorts of spending—construction, buying materials, service contracts, and more. Payroll plays a huge part, too, since the base pays out salaries for a big workforce.
You’ll find about 12,000 people working at Buckley. That includes roughly 3,100 active duty members, 4,000 National Guard and reservists, 2,400 civilian employees, and another 2,500 contractors.
Since Buckley SFB opened, it’s created over 20,000 jobs in the area. These jobs cover everything from aerospace tech to support services, and plenty of construction work as well.
The base’s impact just keeps growing. Back in 2022, officials reported $1.38 billion in economic activity from Buckley, so it’s clear the numbers keep climbing for both Aurora and Colorado.
Buckley doesn’t just focus on the economy. The base works closely with Aurora organizations and Colorado agencies, teaming up to support education and community projects.
The Purple Star Initiative stands out as a big win for military families. Governor Jared Polis signed it into law in 2024, making sure public schools offer extra support for kids connected to the military.
Now, this program helps more than 44,000 military-connected children throughout Colorado. It’s designed for families who move a lot or deal with deployment stress, which can really throw off a student’s routine.
Base leaders stay in touch with local officials, meeting at formal events and collaborating on shared goals. Every year, the State of the Base Address brings together about 200 elected officials, civic leaders, and base commanders to talk about priorities and community growth.
These partnerships help Aurora grow as a space industry hub, and they make life better for service member families through real programs and practical support.
Buckley Space Force Base is gearing up for the future, expanding both its infrastructure and mission capabilities. The base is working to secure more federal funding for upgrades and is opening up new operational areas to meet the growing demands of space missions.
Buckley SFB is landing some big infrastructure investments to keep up with its expanding role. The 2024 National Defense Authorization Act includes funding for essential upgrades, thanks to Congressman Crow pushing for these changes.
Aurora’s city leaders are all-in, too. They’re backing more funding to expand the base, especially on the east side, with a focus on utilities and infrastructure that boost what the base can actually do.
Key Infrastructure Priorities:
The base’s $2.6 billion annual contribution to Colorado’s economy definitely helps rally local support for these projects.
Space Force leadership sees Buckley SFB as a key player for future space operations. General Hague stopped by recently and called out the base’s growing role in planning and carrying out Space Force missions.
The Future of Buckley Task Force brings together military and civilian leaders to map out long-term mission growth. They talk about everything from operational needs and staffing to how the base fits into the community as it grows.
Mission Development Areas:
Buckley supports over 6,000 jobs and stands as a pillar of Colorado’s aerospace industry. The base’s expansion plans aim to strengthen national security and keep the local economy strong.
People have plenty of questions about Buckley Space Force Base—everything from getting on base to housing and jobs. If you’re looking for info, here’s a quick rundown of the basics.
Military families at Buckley can pick between on-base housing or renting off-base in Aurora or Denver. Living on base puts you close to facilities and schools.
Off-base housing gives you more choices across Aurora, Denver, and nearby towns. Families get Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to help with rent.
The base housing office helps with both on-base assignments and off-base searches. They can guide you through neighborhoods, school options, and commute times so you can make the right call for your family.
You can grab base maps at the visitor center or main security gates when you arrive. The visitor center (call 720-847-9431) hands out current maps and directions to wherever you need to go.
Digital maps are also available on the base website and through military resources. These show building locations, parking, and key spots around the installation.
New arrivals get orientation packets with detailed maps during in-processing. Unit sponsors also hand out maps and help new folks find their way.
If you’re looking for civilian jobs at Buckley, check USAJobs.gov. That’s where the federal government posts openings, and you can search by location—just use the base name or Aurora, Colorado.
Military jobs go through Space Force recruiting offices and career field managers. Active duty members coordinate assignments through their personnel centers.
Contract jobs depend on the company and specialty. Major defense contractors at Buckley list openings on their own websites and job boards.
Buckley sits in Aurora, just east of Denver, and connects easily to Interstate 225 and Highway 470. That makes it pretty accessible from all over the metro area.
Visitors should call the visitor center at 720-847-9431 before coming out. They’ll give you gate directions and explain what you need for entry.
Personnel stationed at Buckley get detailed directions and traffic info during in-processing. Multiple gates serve different parts of the base, depending on where you’re headed and your access level.
Buckley opened during World War II as a military training spot. Over the decades, the installation has grown and shifted its mission to support new defense needs.
In 2021, the base moved from Air Force to Space Force control, making space-based missions and satellite operations its main focus.
Construction and upgrades are ongoing as the base’s mission keeps expanding. Buckley regularly updates its facilities to support modern space operations and its growing team.
Buckley Space Force Base mainly handles missile warning systems. The 460th Space Wing runs space-based detection operations out of Buckley.
This facility puts a lot of effort into infrared detection satellites. They use these to provide global missile warning capabilities.
Peterson Space Force Base, on the other hand, acts as the headquarters for some of the biggest Space Force commands. You’ll find senior leadership here, and they’re busy coordinating broader space operations across several installations.
Both bases sit in Colorado, but honestly, their roles couldn’t be more different. Buckley leans into technical operations, while Peterson takes on command and strategic tasks.
