Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 10

Space Launch Complex 10 (SLC-10), or Missile Launch Complex 10, is located on Vandenberg Space Force Base in Lompoc, California. It was built in 1958 to test ballistic missiles and developed into a space launching facility in 1963. Prior to 1966, Space Launch Complex 10W (SLC-10W) was known as Vandenberg AFB Pad 75-2-6. It remains a rare pristine look at the electronics and facilities created in that era that helped the United States grow its space capabilities.

The last launch from this complex was a Thor booster in 1980. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1986.

It is undergoing an eight-year restoration, and public visits are possible, if arranged in advance.

History

The launch complex was built in 1958 by the Douglas Aircraft Corporation, and was first designated Complex 75-2. At that time it consisted of three launch pads, which were used to train military operators of PGM-17 Thor ballistic missiles, and to conduct missile launch tests. The first launches were conducted by the British Royal Air Force in June and August 1959. The facilities at SLC-10 were dismantled and transported to Johnston Island in support of Operation Dominic, a nuclear weapons testing project conducted there in 1962.

The launch complex was rebuilt in 1963 to support the development of Burner rockets, with two launch pads, designated SLC-10E and SLC-10W. Tests were conducted at SLC-10W from 1965 to 1980, using the Thor satellite launch vehicles, the first stages of which followed the design of the Thor missile.

Surviving elements

Two launch pads and a prefabricated launch blockhouse are the principal surviving elements of the complex. The blockhouse interior still includes all of the electrical equipment used in later launches. SLC-10W also includes pipes and storage facilities for storing and managing the liquid fuel used in the rockets.

Launch History

SLC-10W

SLC-10E

References

External links

Aviation: From Sand Dunes to Sonic Booms, a National Park Service Discover Our Shared Heritage Travel Itinerary
DOD NHL details for California
Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) documentation, filed under North End of Aero Road, Lompoc, Santa Barbara County, CA:
- HAER No. CA-296, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10", 115 data pages
- HAER No. CA-296-A, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, Blockhouse", 27 photos, 5 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-B, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, Metal Building", 2 photos, 2 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-C, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, Office and Administration Building", 7 photos, 3 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-D, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, Technical Support Building", 9 photos, 3 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-E, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, Hydrogen Peroxide Facility", 1 photo, 2 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-F, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, East Launch Pad", 26 photos, 4 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-G, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, Maintenance Support Building", 5 photos, 2 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-H, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, West Launch Pad", 61 photos, 7 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-I, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, Construction Storage Building", 3 photos, 2 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-J, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, Power Substation", 1 photo, 2 photo caption pages
- HAER No. CA-296-K, "Vandenburg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 10, LE-8", 9 photos, 3 photo caption pages