Space Launch Complex 10
Also known as: Missile Launch Complex 10
Why it's listed
Space Launch Complex 10 is a rocket launch site on Vandenberg Air Force Base near Lompoc, California. Douglas Aircraft built it in 1958 to support training launches of the THOR intermediate-range ballistic missile, and the Air Force accepted it that October. Royal Air Force crews made the first launches from the east and west pads in 1959. In 1962 the complex was dismantled and shipped to Johnston Island for nuclear testing, then rebuilt at the west pad in 1963-64 using equipment from dismantled THOR sites in England. From 1965 to 1980 the west pad launched THOR-boosted Burner satellites, ending with the 32nd THOR lift-off on 14 July 1980. The nomination holds that the west pad and its reinforced concrete blockhouse, with original electronics, are the best surviving example of a working 1950s launch complex from the early years of the American space effort. The pad has been decommissioned since 1980 but remains well preserved.
Significance in brief: The nomination argues that SLC-10W with its blockhouse is the best surviving example of a working 1950s launch complex from the start of the American effort to explore space. It supported THOR IRBM launches and later THOR-based Burner/Altair satellite launches through 1980. Its blockhouse electronics are among the best surviving examples of working space launch equipment of that era.
Machine-generated summary. This summary was generated by a language model from the official nomination document and has not been reviewed line by line by an editor. It may contain errors. Check the source document before relying on any detail. Source: nomination document (PDF) · National Archives catalog entry. NRHP reference 86003511, listed June 23, 1986. Summary generated October 2026 (model claude-sonnet-5-5, prompt v1.0-2026-10-29, confidence medium).
Key facts
| Address | Vandenberg Air Force Base, Lompoc |
|---|---|
| County | Santa Barbara County |
| Listed | June 23, 1986 |
| Reference number | 86003511 |
| Resource type | Structure |
| Period of significance | 1958-1980 |
| Architect / builder | US Air Force |
| Areas of significance | Engineering, Transportation, Exploration/Settlement |
| Level of significance | National |
| National Historic Landmark | Yes, designated June 23, 1986 |
| Status (as stated in the nomination) | SLC-10W was decommissioned after its last launch on 14 July 1980 and kept in caretaker status; the blockhouse and pad are described as intact and in good condition. SLC-10E is stripped, with only the pad, launch shed and some equipment left. |
| Acreage | 138 |
| Coordinates | 34.76535, -120.62374 (NPS GIS) |
What listing means for this property
National Register listing is honorary: it recognises significance and does not restrict what a private owner may do without federal money or permits. It unlocks the 20% federal rehabilitation tax credit for income-producing buildings, state credits in many states, and Section 106 review when federal agencies are involved. See what listing means in practice.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; confirm with your State Historic Preservation Office or a qualified adviser.
Sources and further reading
- National Park Service, National Register of Historic Places database (snapshot May 2026), reference 86003511.
- Nomination form (PDF, National Archives) — catalog entry
- Wikipedia article (used for cross-checking only; text not reproduced here)
- Wikidata Q2510096
- This listing as JSON
Last updated October 2026. Found an error? See the editorial policy for how to report it.