Dept. of Astronautics to Celebrate 50th Anniversary

The Department of Astronautics at the United States Air Force Academy is planning to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of its establishment on March 7, 2008.  Formed by order of Brigadier General Robert McDermott, Dean of Faculty of the Air Force Academy, in March, 1958, the USAFA Astro Department was the world's first undergraduate academic department specifically devoted to astronautics instruction.  His order also established a year-long core course taken by all cadets, and ultimately led to the first accredited undergraduate degree in astronautical engineering offered in the United States.

Since 1958, hundreds of cadets have earned degrees in astronautical engineering, engineering science, space operations, and systems engineering through the Astro Department and been commissioned as second lieutenants in the United States Air Force and the air forces of several allied nations.  Moreover, every graduate of USAFA has completed at least one course in introductory astronautics.  Astro Majors have gone on to become astronauts, general officers, corporate CEOs, and senior government executives.  Hundreds of officers, NCOs, and civilians have also served in the Astro Department as faculty and staff, responsible for the instruction, research, and administration of many USAFA space-related programs

Throughout the day of March 7, 2008, the Department of Astronautics will host facility and classroom tours as well as discussions of past and current activities.  The day will culminate in a gala affair at Doolittle Hall with reception, dinner, and presentations.  All current and former Astro, Space Ops, Engineering Science (Astro Track) and Systems Engineering (Space Track) majors are invited to attend, as are all current and former Astronautics Department faculty.