Sunnyvale Air Force Station

Sunnyvale Air Force Station, located in Sunnyvale, California, was established in 1960 as a key node in the United States Air Force’s satellite control network. Initially operated by the Air Force Systems Command, the station became the primary ground control site for the nation's reconnaissance and communications satellites, playing a critical role during the Cold War. In the late 1970s, much of its operations were transferred to the newly established Onizuka Air Force Station nearby, though Sunnyvale continued to support satellite tracking and telemetry. The station remained active until its closure and eventual repurposing in the 1990s, marking the end of its decades-long contribution to U.S. national security and space operations.