Jan 21:VAFB & Tracking Station
What is Inside the Golf Balls??

On Saturday the 21st, more than 34 members of the club gathered in the Orcutt Albertson's parking lot under threatening skies and a brisk wind. As they assembled, two comments were heard often repeated throughout the crowd: "What a great turnout," and "I have my two ID cards!" Yes, it was a trip to one of the secure areas of Vandenberg AFB, and member Andy Wulfestieg needed to make sure that every procedure was strictly followed to allow everyone into this often seen, but rarely visited site.
As the journey began, more than 18 cars, with only a few non-Vettes, ventured west towards Casmalia, and headed into the hills. It was a short drive, and after finding a place to park, the members gathered in front of the security checkpoint for a quick update, and were greeted by a few of the site's workers, along with a few family members who had come out to see the collection of cars. They had also come to witness a surprise event, the reenlistment of one of the site's non-commissioned officers. Despite a little fear in the crowd from at least a couple folks (right Bill?), Andy promised this was not a recruiting drive, and after a quick ceremony and a couple photos (thanks for sharing your cars!), we proceeded through the gate. First stop was the briefing room, where Andy explained the history of the site and the squadron, and it's ties to the Corona satellite program, the World War II Candy Bomber, and even to modern GPS. We toured the Heritage Hall, the antenna operations consoles, the backup scheduling center, and finally through the air lock and into the radome (AKA the "golf ball"). There the group was amazed by the size and agility of the massive antenna, and many were reluctant to leave as it continued its gyrations tracking satellites across the sky.
And with that, the tour was over. A few members departed for other appointments, but most of the crowd joined in a leisurely drive down Highway 1, past the federal penitentiary (no Dennis, that wasn't where we were going for lunch), and on into Lompoc for a stop at the Texas Cattle Co. Despite a slightly later than expected arrival, the staff was well prepared, and the Harvey's were there waiting too. Lots of popcorn, great food and socializing later (and not necessarily in that order), everyone slowly disbursed for the rest of their weekend activities. Thanks everyone for coming out - I had a great time showing off my "office"! Andy