Did you know that Lompoc is the best vantage point for viewing rocket launches on the West Coast? Lompoc is your front-row seat to watch a rocket light up the morning sky and to feel the thunderous rumbling through the ground for miles around.
People come to Lompoc from far and wide… just to catch a glimpse of rockets glimmering as they reach out into orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base. Vandenberg is host to many public and private aerospace entities including NASA, SpaceX, United Launch Alliance, and others. In fact, it’s the only military base in the United States that launches unmanned satellites into orbit - including 2018’s Mission to Mars and the IceSat 2.
SPACE WALK ANYONE?
Explore Geocaching in Lompoc
About Vandenberg Space Force Base
Vandenberg Space Force Base is one of the nation’s most important military and space installations, where unmanned test missiles and satellites are launched throughout the year.
Generally, missile launch days and times are released five days in advance, and are subject to change based on weather conditions and/or mechanical challenges. Call (805) 606-8263 for the latest info.
Upcoming Launches and Affiliated Events
Vandenberg Base Access and Tours
Vandenberg SFB is designated as a closed installation. However, the 30th Space Wing Public Affairs office hosts monthly visits to the Vandenberg Space and Missile Heritage Center at Historic Space Launch Complex-10 are on the third Tuesday of each month at 1 pm.
Space Launch Complex-10 is the only landmark at Vandenberg SFB to be listed on the national Registry of Historic Places. It is the site of Thor missile tests and Thor/Agena space launches.
The Space and Missile Heritage Center pulls together the history of SLC-10 and all west-coast launch programs as it tells the story of the critical role Vandenberg SFB plays in launching commercial, national security, and scientific polar-orbiting satellites. Vandenberg is the only west-coast spaceport and provides unique capabilities for assured access to and from space.
All participants in these monthly visits must register and provide full name, date of birth, and driver’s license number at least 15 days in advance by e-mailing 30SW.PA.Workflow@us.af.mil
Worldwide Launch Schedule & Space News
Featuring Vandenberg Space Force Base & More
River Bend Bike Park
Built by community volunteers for BMX and dirt bike enthusiasts, the River Bend Bike Park offers off-road trails and jumps for all levels. Open daily, weather and conditions permitting. On-site restrooms and picnic tables.
La Purisima Mission
Step Back in Time to the most extensively restored mission in California. La Purisima Mission State Park is home to 2,000 acres of hiking and horseback riding, a Visitor Center and Exhibit Hall, and livestock.
Skydiving
Skydiving on your bucket list? Take the highest tandem jump on the west coast! Soak in unforgettable views of the Pacific ocean, hillsides, and vineyards, and feel the rush of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
YOUR INSIDER GUIDE
Fill in your information below for immediate access to our Visitor Guide, and start exploring Lompoc!
When you download our visitor guide, we will occasionally email you about upcoming events and offers in Lompoc. You can unsubscribe at any time, and we will never sell, trade or give your email to anyone.
