Peterson Space Force Base sits at 6,035 feet elevation in Colorado Springs. The base shares runways with the city’s municipal airport.
They named the base after First Lieutenant Edward J. Peterson, who lost his life in a 1942 aircraft crash at the original Army Air Base.
Peterson SFB operates in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at a high elevation—6,035 feet above sea level. The base and the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport use the same airfield, which is kind of unusual.
This spot puts Peterson SFB right in the middle of Colorado’s aerospace corridor. The altitude gives some real advantages for space operations and missile defense.
Both military and civilian aircraft fly from the same runways. That setup makes infrastructure more efficient and lets the Space Force and commercial aviation coexist.
Colorado Springs has become a major military space operations hub. Several defense installations in the city focus on space surveillance and satellite communications.
The base opened in 1942 as Colorado Springs Army Air Base during World War II. First Lieutenant Edward J. Peterson, a Colorado native, became its namesake after dying in a P-38 Lightning crash on August 8, 1942.
Peterson graduated from Englewood High School in 1935 and picked up degrees from Denver University. He joined the Civilian Pilot Training program before heading into the Army Air Forces.
Over the years, the base changed names a few times. In December 1942, it became Peterson Field, then Peterson Air Force Base in 1976, and finally Peterson Space Force Base in 2021.
Peterson was the first Colorado native to die in the line of duty there. His sacrifice led leaders to name the base after him.
Peterson Space Force Base is home to Space Base Delta 1, supporting 111 mission partners from different military branches. It acts as headquarters for important space defense operations.
NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) runs its main operations center at Peterson SFB. Here, they monitor airspace threats and direct missile defense efforts.
The base supports the 21st Space Wing and parts of U.S. Space Command. These groups handle satellite operations, space surveillance, and missile warning.
You’ll find specialized command centers, satellite communication arrays, and training complexes on base. The infrastructure supports both day-to-day missions and the people stationed there.
Peterson SFB also offers amenities like indoor rock climbing and community gardens. These perks help military families and civilian employees enjoy life on base.
Peterson Space Force Base acts as a critical hub for space operations. Space Base Delta 1 is here, supporting over 114 mission partners across 17 worldwide locations.
The base enables multi-domain defense operations and gives the U.S. Space Force the infrastructure it needs.
Space Base Delta 1 works with a pretty clear mission: deliver world-class weapon-system infrastructure and combat support. This lets the U.S. Space Force, joint partners, and allies handle global defense operations.
They focus on three main priorities. Infrastructure Support helps mission Delta weapon system operations directly. Base Support covers all mission partners, Guardians, Airmen, and their families. Personnel Development aims to build professional, resilient team members across the organization.
Peterson Space Force Base manages real property at four major installations: Peterson SFB, Pituffik Space Base, Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, and the Maui Space Surveillance Complex in Hawaii.
They also keep up installation support agreements with 29 units worldwide.
The base hosts several major mission partners, which really defines its strategic value. North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command operate here.
U.S. Space Command and Space Operations Command maintain a presence, along with Space Training and Readiness Command.
Space Operations Command uses Peterson as its headquarters. This command provides space capabilities and puts combat-ready forces at the disposal of U.S. Space Command and other commanders.
The base supports Army Space & Missile Defense Command operations and houses the Joint Force Component Command for Integrated Missile Defense.
The Air Force Reserve Command’s 302d Airlift Wing also uses the shared runways with the municipal airport.
Space Base Delta 1 includes over 2,800 military and civilian members. Together, they support nearly 17,000 people across all mission areas.
The base provides integrated Base Operating Support and Combat Service Support to keep operations running at multiple locations.
The organization enables U.S. Space Force operations for four USSF Space Deltas. They deliver the capabilities and tasks needed to keep forces operating, and these services stretch across 17 global locations.
Delta Staff Agency services coordinate support activities across this network. The base keeps its motto, “Unwavering Support, Unlimited Reach,” alive through nonstop operations.
Peterson Space Force Base sits at 6,035 feet in Colorado Springs and shares runways with the municipal airport, which helps with operational flexibility.
Space Base Delta 1 acts as the main base support unit for the U.S. Space Force. Its headquarters are at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado.
The group provides critical infrastructure and support to more than 100 mission partners at 23 locations around the world.
Space Base Delta 1 reports to Space Operations Command for daily missions. Air Force Materiel Command gives higher headquarters support for base operations.
The organization includes over 2,800 military and civilian members. They support nearly 17,000 people across all mission partners and locations.
Space Base Delta 1 keeps up real property at four main sites: Peterson SFB, Pituffik Space Base, Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, and the Maui Space Surveillance Complex in Hawaii.
They also manage installation support agreements with 29 other units around the globe.
Major mission partners include North American Aerospace Defense Command, U.S. Northern Command, and U.S. Space Command. The group also supports Space Training and Readiness Command and Army Space & Missile Defense Command.
Space Base Delta 1 delivers three main types of support. Base Operating Support covers direct help, maintenance, supply, and distribution for forces at different locations.
Combat Service Support brings the capabilities and functions needed to keep all forces operating. Delta Staff Agency services complete the support structure.
The organization enables operations for 10 Space Force deltas and more than 111 mission partners. This support stretches across 23 operating locations worldwide.
Space Base Delta 1 shares runway operations with Colorado Springs Municipal Airport and backs up the Air Force Reserve Command’s 302d Airlift Wing.
Installation support also extends to the Joint Force Component Command for Integrated Missile Defense. These partnerships boost multi-domain defense capabilities around the world.
Space Base Delta 1’s mission centers on delivering top-tier weapon-system infrastructure and combat support. This lets the Space Force, partners, and allies handle global defense.
They want to be the premier Space Base Delta, delivering agile, uninterrupted service to warfighters and mission partners—anywhere.
Three core priorities steer their work:
First, infrastructure support remains the highest priority for mission delta weapon system operations.
Base support covers all mission partners, Guardians, Airmen, and their families.
Personnel development builds professional and resilient team members.
Their motto, “Unwavering Support, Unlimited Reach,” sums up that commitment.
These priorities match up with Space Operations Command objectives. They help Peterson SFB keep its role as a critical space defense hub.
Peterson Space Force Base is the headquarters for three of America’s most important space and defense commands. From here, organizations coordinate aerospace defense, homeland security, and space operations using advanced command centers.
NORAD runs its main headquarters at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs. The command keeps a constant watch for aerospace threats to North America from its command center on base.
Peterson’s NORAD command center acts as the central coordination hub for a global network of sensors and tracking systems. These systems monitor aircraft, missiles, and space objects that might threaten the U.S. or Canada.
NORAD’s facility at Peterson works closely with the Cheyenne Mountain Complex nearby. While Cheyenne Mountain serves as the backup, Peterson handles daily operations.
The command center processes data from satellites, radar, and ground sensors across North America. U.S. and Canadian military personnel staff the facility around the clock.
U.S. Northern Command shares command center space with NORAD at Peterson. USNORTHCOM focuses on homeland defense and military support for domestic emergencies in the continental U.S.
The command works with federal, state, and local agencies during disasters and security threats. Peterson SFB serves as the nerve center for these homeland security missions.
USNORTHCOM’s presence at Peterson makes it easier to coordinate with NORAD’s aerospace surveillance. Both commands share intelligence and communication systems at the base.
The command center supports missions from hurricane response to cyber defense. Planners at Peterson coordinate resources across military branches when federal help is needed.
U.S. Space Command set up its headquarters at Peterson Space Force Base as the newest major tenant. The command oversees military space operations and coordinates space activities across all military services.
Space Command’s mission covers satellite operations, space surveillance, and missile warning systems. The Peterson headquarters manages these assets, supporting both military and civilian infrastructure.
The command works directly with Space Operations Command, which also has offices at Peterson SFB. This setup creates a concentrated hub of space expertise and operational power at the base.
Space Command’s presence makes Peterson America’s main space operations center. The facility provides secure communications and command infrastructure for managing military space assets worldwide.
Peterson Space Force Base hosts several key military units that handle space operations and airlift missions. The 302nd Airlift Wing supplies reserve airlift capabilities, while Space Operations Command elements manage satellite communications and space surveillance.
The 302nd Airlift Wing is Peterson’s main Air Force Reserve unit. This wing works with active-duty forces to provide strategic airlift for a range of missions.
The wing supports military operations through cargo transport and personnel airlift services. Reserve airmen train regularly to stay ready for both domestic and overseas deployments.
Key Capabilities:
The 302nd works closely with other Peterson units to support space operations. Their airlift skills are essential for moving equipment and people to meet space mission needs.
Reserve members usually serve one weekend per month and two weeks a year. This setup lets civilian professionals bring their expertise to the military while keeping their regular jobs.
Space Operations Command keeps a strong presence at Peterson SFB with several specialized units. The 21st Operations Support Squadron stands out as one of the main operational groups based here.
Active-duty personnel from both the US and Canadian Air Force serve in this squadron. Department of Defense civilians work alongside military members to support the mission.
Primary Functions:
The Satellite Communications Office, as part of Space Delta 8, delivers crucial communications support. This office organizes satellite communication services for military and government operations around the globe.
Space operations demand 24/7 monitoring and support. Teams work in shifts to keep constant watch over space assets and communication networks.
US and Canadian forces have integrated their efforts, which really highlights how international space defense has become. This partnership boosts North American space security by sharing expertise and resources.
Space Base Delta 1 leads training and readiness at Peterson SFB. This unit manages over 2,800 military and civilian personnel who support nearly 17,000 people across different locations.
The delta provides weapon-system infrastructure and combat support for Space Force operations. Their mission lets joint partners and allies carry out multi-domain defense operations more effectively.
Training Areas:
Space Base Delta 1 supports over 100 global mission partners with thorough training programs. These partnerships stretch across military branches, government agencies, and international allies.
Training covers technical skills and operational readiness. Personnel have to understand complex space systems while meeting combat effectiveness standards.
The unit organizes training at Peterson, Schriever, and Buckley Space Force Bases. Using multiple bases lets them offer specialized environments and share resources.
Peterson Space Force Base started out as a small Army air facility during World War II. Over the years, it became America’s top space defense installation.
The base went through several military commands before landing as headquarters for major space operations and the U.S. Space Force.
Colorado Springs Army Air Base opened on April 28, 1942 at the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport. At first, the base trained personnel in photographic reconnaissance under the Army Air Forces Photo Reconnaissance Operational Training Unit.
A tragic event left a mark on the base in August 1942. First Lieutenant Edward J. Peterson, a Colorado native and Operations Officer for the 14th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, died when his Lockheed F-4 reconnaissance aircraft crashed on takeoff due to engine failure.
On December 13, 1942, officials renamed the installation Peterson Army Air Base to honor him. People started calling it “Peterson Field” or just “Pete Field.”
The base’s mission changed as the war went on. In October 1943, it shifted to heavy bomber combat crew training with the 383rd Bombardment Group flying B-24 Liberators.
By July 1944, the focus moved again, this time to fighter pilot training with Curtiss P-40 Warhawks.
After World War II, the Army Air Forces inactivated the base on December 31, 1945 and handed the property back to Colorado Springs. The Air Force, newly established, reactivated Peterson Field several times between 1947 and 1949 to support Strategic Air Command.
Peterson Field became permanent in 1951 when Air Defense Command set up shop at nearby Ent Air Force Base. The 4600th Air Base Group handled support for several Colorado Springs military commands.
In March 1976, Peterson Field officially became Peterson Air Force Base. Strategic Air Command took over in 1979, and then Air Force Space Command arrived in 1982.
The 1st Space Wing started up on January 1, 1983, marking Peterson’s real jump into space operations. This unit took on aerospace warning and space surveillance missions that are vital for national defense.
In May 1992, the 21st Space Wing replaced earlier units and became Peterson’s main operational command. For more than 25 years, this wing provided missile warning and space control with a global network of ground-based sensors.
Things changed in a big way on July 26, 2021, when Peterson Air Force Base became Peterson Space Force Base. That shift reflected the base’s central role in America’s space defense and the rise of the U.S. Space Force.
Peterson SFB now houses Space Base Delta 1, supporting over 100 global mission partners. The base also hosts important commands like NORAD and U.S. Northern Command.
The base operates and supports remote sites such as Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station, Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, and several radar stations across North America. This network keeps missile warning and space surveillance running nonstop.
Peterson SFB shares its airfield with Colorado Springs Municipal Airport, juggling both civilian and military flights. The 302nd Airlift Wing from Air Force Reserve Command flies out of Peterson as well.
The base keeps expanding its space mission with new partnerships and tech upgrades. With recent changes, the Peterson-Schriever Garrison now administers several Space Force installations, including Peterson SFB and Schriever Space Force Base.
Peterson Space Force Base acts as a central hub for military space cooperation, supporting over 111 mission partners worldwide through Space Base Delta 1. The base coordinates joint operations with allied nations and provides key infrastructure for global space defense.
Peterson Space Force Base serves as a key spot for international space cooperation and allied military teamwork. The U.S. Space Force often hosts foreign military leaders to discuss combined space operations and build stronger partnerships.
Recently, Australian Chief of Joint Operations Vice Admiral Justin Jones visited for briefings on integrated space capabilities. These meetings aim to expand cooperation between allied nations in space.
Space Command leaders travel worldwide to reinforce partnerships. Officials have visited Colombia and Argentina, connecting with regional partners and discussing space initiatives.
Key Partnership Activities:
Space Base Delta 1 at Peterson Space Force Base supports more than 111 mission partners across 23 global locations. The organization includes over 2,800 military and civilian personnel who help nearly 17,000 people do their jobs.
The base provides weapon-system infrastructure and combat support to many organizations. Space Base Delta 1 enables U.S. Space Force operations for 10 Space Deltas and works with other military and government agencies.
Mission partners get integrated base support, combat service support, and specialized agency services. This setup allows the Space Force and partners to run global operations across many domains.
The partner network brings together military branches, government agencies, and allied nations for space missions. Peterson Space Force Base keeps these partnerships running smoothly through centralized command and support.
Space Base Delta 1 at Peterson Space Force Base delivers infrastructure and support services that make space operations possible at 23 locations worldwide. The base offers combat service support, maintains vital facilities, and provides community services for military personnel and their families.
Space Base Delta 1 runs as the main infrastructure provider for Peterson Space Force Base. The team keeps up essential facilities that support space operations and defense.
The base shares its airfield with Colorado Springs Municipal Airport. This setup lets both military and civilian aircraft use the same runways. Space Base Delta 1 handles runway maintenance, air traffic coordination, and facility care.
Key Infrastructure Elements:
The infrastructure crew supports over 111 mission partners at various sites. They keep sensor equipment and control units running to detect foreign missiles and space objects. These systems need constant attention and technical support.
Space Base Delta 1 works with both Space Force and Air Force units. The 302nd Airlift Wing of the Air Force Reserve uses the same facilities. This joint use makes the most of available resources.
Combat service support at Peterson Space Force Base keeps space defense operations running. Space Base Delta 1 provides integrated support for 10 Space Force deltas and their missions.
The base supports weapon-system infrastructure for space operations. Teams maintain and supply the gear used in worldwide defense. This includes technical help for space monitoring systems.
Support Services Include:
Personnel go through special training for space operations support. The base teams up with joint partners and allied forces for combined missions. Support crews work around the clock to keep everything ready.
Space Base Delta 1 offers delta staff agency services. These services coordinate between space units and their mission requirements. The support structure allows quick responses to space threats.
The 21st Force Support Squadron handles community services for military families at Peterson Space Force Base. These programs make life better for personnel and their families.
Military and family readiness programs cover a range of needs. Services include childcare, education support, and recreation. The base aims to keep families stable and supported.
Community Programs:
Base personnel can get information and referrals for various needs. The community services team connects families to resources on and off base. They also work with local Colorado Springs organizations.
Housing services help military families find the right place to live. The base offers on-base housing and helps with off-base options. Support staff guide families through moving and settling in.
Recreation programs bring sports leagues, hobby clubs, and special events. These activities help military families build connections at Peterson Space Force Base.
Peterson Space Force Base operates as a unique civil-military aviation facility, sharing its runway system with Colorado Springs Airport. This setup creates one of America’s most complex airfields, where military space missions and commercial flights work together on shared infrastructure.
Peterson SFB sits on about 1,600 acres leased from Colorado Springs Airport, not on federally owned land. This makes for a distinctive partnership between the Department of the Air Force and the city.
Colorado Springs Airport owns and maintains the runways, taxiways, and most airfield facilities. Peterson SFB takes care of its own military ramp area but relies on the civilian infrastructure for all flights.
Key Partnership Benefits:
The airport recently spent $15-16 million building Taxiway Bravo. This project mainly serves military aircraft at zero cost to Peterson SFB, showing the financial perks of this partnership.
The shared runway system handles about 155,000 air operations each year, with military flights making up roughly 8,000 of those. Two parallel runways and a crosswind runway serve both commercial and military planes on the 7,200-acre site.
Every day, several agencies coordinate to keep things running. The FAA manages air traffic control from a shared tower. Courtney Davis leads military airfield operations, while Jeremy Owings manages the civilian side.
Military operations include training for units heading to mountainous regions. The 6,184-foot elevation and nearby terrain give aircraft realistic conditions for missions overseas.
Operational Complexity: Big events, like presidential visits, require tight coordination between civilian and military teams. Recent operations featured Air Force Thunderbirds demonstrations and presidential support, all managed through the joint command structure.
This shared approach cuts down on duplicate infrastructure costs and keeps things flexible for both military space missions and commercial aviation.
Peterson Space Force Base stands out as a key hub for continental defense and global military operations. Major commands here protect North American airspace and coordinate worldwide space activities across several domains.
North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) operates right out of Peterson Space Force Base, sharing its mission with Canada. NORAD tracks thousands of objects in space and keeps an eye on air approaches to the continent 24/7.
They use advanced radar systems and satellite networks to catch potential threats. These tools spot incoming missiles, aircraft, or even space debris that could threaten North American territory.
U.S. Northern Command also calls Peterson home. This command runs homeland defense missions across the United States.
The base provides the infrastructure folks need to respond quickly to national security threats.
Peterson’s location in Colorado Springs actually gives it a strategic edge. The base sits near Cheyenne Mountain, which holds backup command centers.
This geography creates solid backup defense capabilities for national security operations.
U.S. Space Command runs global space operations from Peterson Space Force Base. The command coordinates military activities across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains—all at once.
Space Operations Command manages satellite communications and navigation globally. These systems support military units on six continents.
The command makes sure troops keep secure communications, no matter where they are.
Peterson brings together over 17,000 personnel from different military branches and allied nations. This team manages space surveillance networks that track objects in orbit.
They also operate missile warning systems to protect allies around the world.
The base supports 114 mission partners in 17 international locations. These partnerships strengthen defense relationships with key allies.
Countries like Poland and other NATO members coordinate space security initiatives through Peterson’s command structure.
Peterson Space Force Base acts as a major economic engine for Colorado Springs, pumping hundreds of millions into the local economy every year. The base keeps up strong community partnerships through education, volunteer work, and local business ties.
Peterson Space Force Base brings real economic benefits to the Colorado Springs region. Military personnel spend money, contractors do business, and civilians find jobs.
The base houses over 5,400 active duty military members from all branches. That’s a lot of people spending money locally.
Military families stationed at Peterson spend their paychecks on housing, shopping, dining, and services across Colorado Springs. Their spending supports thousands of local jobs, from real estate to hospitality.
Defense contractors and space industry companies set up shop near the base, drawn by its strategic importance. These businesses hire civilian workers and add more tax revenue to the local economy.
Peterson also fuels indirect economic activity with visiting personnel, military exercises, and space industry conferences. Hotels, restaurants, and transportation services all benefit from the steady flow of visitors.
Peterson Space Force Base stays active in Colorado Springs community life through educational outreach, volunteer work, and civic partnerships. Military personnel regularly volunteer for local charities, school programs, and community events.
The base sometimes opens its facilities for community events and builds partnerships with area schools to promote science and space education. Students get a taste of space careers and technology through base-sponsored programs.
The Hub Community Center at Peterson provides services for military families and encourages community interaction. Base personnel join local civic organizations and add to the culture of Colorado Springs.
Military members and their families blend into local neighborhoods, schools, and recreation activities. This integration builds strong ties between the base and the surrounding community, making life better for both military and civilian folks.
Peterson Space Force Base serves as headquarters for Space Base Delta 1 and supports over 111 mission partners. People often have questions about assignments, facilities, missions, and career opportunities at this Colorado Springs installation.
Peterson Space Force Base acts as the headquarters for Space Base Delta 1. The base supports 111 mission partners handling multiple critical operations.
Major commands at Peterson include North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and U.S. Northern Command.
U.S. Space Command also has its headquarters here. Space Operations Command runs satellite operations and space-based missions from this spot.
The 302nd Airlift Wing provides Reserve support operations. These units work together to monitor aerospace threats and coordinate space operations worldwide.
Peterson Space Force Base plays a central role in space domain awareness missions. The base coordinates satellite operations to protect American space assets from possible threats.
Space Base Delta 1 supports space surveillance operations. People at Peterson track objects in orbit and spot potential collision risks to operational satellites.
The base supports space-based missile warning systems. These systems give early detection of ballistic missile launches anywhere in the world.
Command and control staff at Peterson work with other space installations. Places like Schriever Space Force Base, Vandenberg Space Force Base, and others get operational support from Peterson personnel.
Peterson Space Force Base shares its runway with Colorado Springs Airport. This setup makes travel easier for military personnel and their families.
The base sits at 6,035 feet above sea level. Personnel can use fitness centers, dining spots, and recreation services on base.
Medical and dental care are available at the base clinic. TRICARE support helps military families get healthcare both on and off base.
Housing options include both on-base and off-base choices. The base also runs a leisure travel office that offers military discount travel services.
Space Force personnel receive assignments through standard military personnel systems. Assignment officers work with career field managers to match people with open positions at Peterson.
Relocation support includes temporary lodging at the base. Personnel can get help with moving to Colorado Springs.
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates match the Colorado Springs cost of living. Military families can pick between on-base housing and off-base rentals.
New arrivals go through in-processing at the base personnel office. This includes security clearance checks and getting facility access.
Peterson Space Force Base works closely with the Air Force Reserve through the 302nd Airlift Wing. This partnership provides airlift for people and equipment.
The base connects with U.S. Northern Command operations. Joint training and operational coordination happen regularly between these groups.
NORAD operations require teamwork with Canadian military personnel. This binational partnership focuses on defending North American airspace.
Collaboration with nearby Schriever Space Force Base creates operational synergy. Both installations work together on space operations and training programs.
At Peterson, you’ll find leadership development programs offered by several commands. Space Operations Command also runs specialized training in satellite operations and space domain awareness.
You can choose from professional military education options—some are in-person, others you can complete online. If you’re interested, you might even go after an advanced degree, thanks to partnerships with local colleges and universities.
Peterson encourages cross-training between different mission areas. You might pick up experience in command and control, space operations, or support functions—sometimes all three, if you’re up for it.
Civilian education benefits help you build skills for a career in space operations. And honestly, Colorado Springs has plenty of higher education institutions if you want to keep learning.
