Moffett Federal Airfield, a United States Naval Air Station, is located in Mountain View, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley, not San Jose, CA. Although San Jose is nearby, Moffett Field, as it is commonly known, has its own distinct history, operations, and significance.
History of Moffett Federal Airfield
Established in 1931, Moffett Field was originally a U.S. Army airfield but was transferred to the U.S. Navy in 1933. During World War II, the base played a crucial role in the war effort, serving as a major hub for the U.S. Navy’s lighter-than-air (LTA) program. The base was home to several squadrons of blimps, which patrolled the Pacific coast and protected against enemy submarines.
After the war, Moffett Field continued to serve as a key base for the U.S. Navy, with a focus on airship operations and research. In the 1950s and 1960s, the base was also used for the development and testing of new airship designs.
Current Operations
Today, Moffett Federal Airfield is operated by the U.S. Air Force’s 129th Rescue Wing, which is part of the California Air National Guard. The wing’s primary mission is to provide personnel recovery and combat search and rescue (CSAR) capabilities, both domestically and abroad.
In addition to its military operations, Moffett Field is also home to the NASA Ames Research Center, which is located adjacent to the airfield. The center is a major research facility for NASA, focusing on areas such as astrobiology, astrophysics, and planetary science.
Economic Impact
Moffett Federal Airfield has a significant economic impact on the local community. According to a study by the Navy, the base generates over $500 million in economic activity each year, supporting over 4,000 jobs and stimulating local businesses.
The base is also a major hub for the local technology industry, with many major tech companies, including Google, Microsoft, and VMware, having facilities nearby.
Environmental Concerns
Like many military bases, Moffett Field has faced environmental concerns over the years. In the 1980s, it was discovered that the base’s soil and groundwater were contaminated with pollutants such as trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchlorates. The Navy has since implemented various cleanup efforts, including the construction of a groundwater treatment plant.
Public Access
While Moffett Field is a restricted military base, there are some areas that are open to the public. The Moffett Historical Museum, located near the base’s entrance, offers a glimpse into the base’s history and operations.
Additionally, the nearby NASA Ames Research Center offers public tours and exhibits, including a visitor center and a planetarium.
🚨 Note: Due to security restrictions, public access to Moffett Field is limited, and visitors must adhere to all rules and regulations.
Conclusion
Moffett Federal Airfield is a significant military and research facility in the heart of Silicon Valley. With its rich history, current operations, and economic impact, the base plays a vital role in the local community. While there are environmental concerns and limited public access, Moffett Field remains an important hub for military, research, and technological innovation.
What is the primary mission of the 129th Rescue Wing at Moffett Field?
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The primary mission of the 129th Rescue Wing is to provide personnel recovery and combat search and rescue (CSAR) capabilities, both domestically and abroad.
What is the NASA Ames Research Center, and what is its focus?
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The NASA Ames Research Center is a major research facility for NASA, focusing on areas such as astrobiology, astrophysics, and planetary science.
What are some of the environmental concerns at Moffett Field?
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Moffett Field has faced environmental concerns, including soil and groundwater contamination with pollutants such as trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchlorates.
Related Terms:
- San Jose military base
- U S Military base
- Sacramento meps 7th battalion
