About this Unit
**HQAFSPACECOM**, or Headquarters Air Force Space Command, was established on 1 September 1982 to organize, train, and equip U.S. Air Force personnel for space operations. Headquartered at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, AFSPACECOM was responsible for space surveillance, missile warning, satellite control, and space launch operations. Throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the command played a crucial role in integrating space capabilities into joint and coalition operations. In December 2019, its mission and personnel were realigned under the newly established United States Space Force, marking the end of AFSPACECOM as a major command of the Air Force.
Historical Facts
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Origins: HQAFSPACECOM stands for Headquarters, Air Force Space Command, which was officially established on September 1, 1982, to consolidate the U.S. Air Force’s space operations under a single command.
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First Commander: The first commander of AFSPC was General James V. Hartinger, who played a key role in shaping the command’s early direction and focus on space operations.
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Cold War Mission: During the Cold War, HQAFSPACECOM was pivotal in operating missile warning systems, space surveillance, and satellite control networks as part of the U.S. defense infrastructure.
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Missile Warning: AFSPC managed the Defense Support Program (DSP) satellites, which could detect missile launches globally, providing vital early warning capability.
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Space Launches: The command was responsible for overseeing military satellite launches from both Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Air Force Base.
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Milstar Communication: HQAFSPACECOM played a significant role in developing and deploying the Milstar satellite constellation, which provides secure, jam-resistant communications for the U.S. military.
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Integration with NORAD: HQAFSPACECOM worked closely with NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command), especially in the area of missile warning and space situational awareness.
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Transition to Space Force: In December 2019, HQAFSPACECOM’s legacy continued as its personnel and missions became the foundation for the newly established United States Space Force.
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Schriever Air Force Base: Named after General Bernard Schriever, a pioneer in Air Force space and missile programs, Schriever AFB was a key installation under HQAFSPACECOM.
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Space and Missile Hall of Fame: AFSPC created the Space and Missile Hall of Fame to honor individuals who made significant contributions to military space and missile operations.
