Vandenberg Collection

Thor-Agena rocket is launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base
A Thor-Agena rocket is launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, on 5 February 1960 carrying Discoverer IX. Date: 1960

Discoverer 1 - launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base
Discoverer 1 was launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, on 28 February 1959 but suffered a telemetary failure at T +500 seconds. Date: 1959

FLATHEAD COUPLE, c1905. Mose Vandenburg, a Flathead Native American, playing a drum while seated outside a tipi next to his wife on the Flathead Reservaton in western Montana

Launching a Titan intercontinental ballistic missile at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, 1964
TITAN MISSILE, 1964. Launching a Titan intercontinental ballistic missile at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, 1964

FOREIGN POLICY, 1949. American politicians discuss policy in advance of the Big Four Conference in Paris. Left to right: Arthur Vandenberg, Dean Acheson, Philip Jessup, and Tom Connally

The third Thor IRBM launched in a training exercise by a three-man RAF launch crew at Vandenberg. 3 August 1959. Date: 1959

The first Thor IRBM launched in a training exercise by a three-man RAF launch crew at Vandenberg. 16 April 1959. Date: 1959

Liquid oxygen vapour escapes during pre-launch checkout of the first Thor IRBM launched in a training exercise by a three-man RAF launch crew at Vandenberg

A Thor IRBM of the RAF during pre-launch checkouts by a crew trained at Vandenberg

All Professionally Made to Order for Quick Shipping

"Vandenberg Air Force Base: A Launchpad of Innovation and Exploration" From the iconic Thor-Agena rocket launches to the historic launch of Discoverer 1, Vandenberg Air Force Base has been at the forefront of space exploration. This sprawling base in California has witnessed numerous awe-inspiring moments that have shaped our understanding of the universe. The powerful Thor-Agena rocket, a symbol of technological prowess, has soared into the sky multiple times from Vandenberg's launchpads. Each launch represents a triumph of human ingenuity and determination as we strive to unlock the secrets beyond our planet's atmosphere. Intriguingly, Vandenberg's significance extends beyond space missions. The captivating image from c1905 showcases Mose Vandenburg, a Flathead Native American immersed in his culture's rich heritage. It reminds us that this land holds stories and histories far older than any rocket launch. Fast forward to 1964 when a Titan intercontinental ballistic missile was launched from Vandenberg. This event underscores how military defense systems have become intertwined with space technology, highlighting both its peaceful applications and potential dangers. NASA's IRIS spacecraft also found its way to Vandenberg for preparation before venturing into orbit. Skilled engineers meticulously connected it to an Orbital Sciences vehicle - yet another testament to collaboration between agencies pushing boundaries together. Technicians performing fit checks on an Orbital Sciences Pegasus rocket exemplify meticulous attention to detail required for successful launches. These dedicated individuals ensure every component is ready for liftoff as they work tirelessly behind-the-scenes at Vandenberg Air Force Base. Notably, this base played a crucial role in launching Landsat Data payload faring onto transporters - capturing essential information about Earth's changing landscapes over time. Such data aids scientists worldwide in monitoring environmental changes and making informed decisions regarding our planet's future well-being.