Custer County

HONORING A LEGACY OF EXPLORATION, INNOVATION, AND SERVICE - The Stafford Air & Space Museum stands as a tribute to the remarkable life and career of General Thomas P. Stafford, an Oklahoma native whose achievements helped define the history of human spaceflight. Located in Weatherford, Oklahoma, the museum celebrates the spirit of exploration that took General Stafford from the plains of Western Oklahoma to the farthest reaches of space—and back home again. THE VISION - Founded with the mission to preserve and share aerospace history, the Stafford Air & Space Museum began as a small local exhibit honoring its namesake. Over time, thanks to community support, strategic partnerships, and the personal involvement of General Stafford himself, it has grown into one of the nation’s premier aerospace museums. We believe in carrying forward the legacy of exploration, innovation, and courage that built the modern world. About General Thomas P. Stafford General Thomas P. Stafford was born and raised in Weatherford, Oklahoma. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a decorated Air Force test pilot, Stafford became one of NASA’s most accomplished astronauts. Gemini VI-A Mission Commander – Pioneered the first space rendezvous with Gemini VII. Gemini IX-A Commander – Conducted critical rendezvous and docking tests. Apollo 10 Commander – Flew the lunar module to within nine miles of the Moon’s surface, paving the way for Apollo 11. Apollo-Soyuz Test Project Commander – Led the first international space mission, meeting Soviet cosmonauts in orbit in 1975 during the height of the Cold War. General Stafford’s career is a testament to courage, innovation, and diplomacy. Our Mission Today We live by our motto: “We are the children of explorers; maintain the legacy.” Preserve Safeguard historic artifacts that tell the story of flight and space exploration. Educate Inspire students through interactive, STEM-aligned programming. Honor Celebrate the achievements of pioneers who dared to reach for the stars. Engage Serve as a cultural and educational hub for Weatherford, Western Oklahoma, and beyond.