Air Force Research Laboratory, Edwards Air Force Base
Since its inception, the AFRL has been devoted to the advancement of rocket technology in support of U.S. military weapons and space flight superiority. Unlike any other facility associated with rocket systems research, design, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E), the AFRL provided facilities for all aspects of systems development and supported some aspect of the evolution of each of the significant rocket and missile systems developed between the Cold War era and the present. Below is the story and history of this site.
Significance
Physical Context
Roots of Rocket Propulsion Research and Development at Edwards AFB
Approach to Research and Development at Leuhman Ridge
Western Development Division and the ICBM (1953-1957)
Sputnik and the Reaction of the West
The Space Race
Continuing Research at the Rocket Propulsion Facility
Construction History
Test Area 1-100 Description and Photos
Test Area 1-115 Description and Photos
Test Area 1-115 Test Stand 1-3 Photos
Test Area 1-115 Test Stand 1-4 Photos
Test Area 1-115 Test Stand 1-5 Photos
Test Area 1-115 Shop Building for Test Stand 1-5
Test Area 1-115 Helium Compression Plant
Test Area 1-115 Instrumentation & Control Building
Test Area 1-115 Control Room
Test Area 1-115 Electrical Substation
Test Area 1-120 Description and Photos
Test Area 1-120 Test Stand 1-A Description and Photos
Test Area 1-120 Control Room and Terminal Area
Test Area 1-120 Observation Bunker Photos
Test Area 1-120 Misc Photos
Test Area 1-125
Test Area 1-125 Observation Bunkers Description and Photos