The Air Force Flight Test Foundation has announced plans to relocate the Flight Test Museum to a new site outside the gates of Edwards Air Force Base in Antelope Valley, California. According to the Foundation, this move will make the museum and its content more accessible, with the aim of connecting with a new generation of visitors.
The historic Antelope Valley witnessed the flight of America’s first jet and the breaking of the sound barrier. This is also where the first rocket plane flights to the edge of space took place, as well as the first glide flights of the space shuttle.
“The skill and spirit of all those who participated in this incredible body of work shaped both the modern world and the American persona,” says Art Thompson, chairman of the Foundation, on the Flight Test Museum’s website.
“Much of this historic work is not known to the world outside the AV and much of what is known is surrounded by myth and legend because of the secret nature of the work. The new Flight Test Museum and STEM center will make that history accessible by literally bringing it outside the Edwards Gate.”
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Celebrating aviation history
Architecture firm Gensler has released its plans for the reimagined Flight Test Museum, with a design that takes inspiration from the museum’s subject matter.
The building will combine the rectangular shape of an aeroplane hangar with the dramatic geometry of a Nighthawk stealth aircraft.
The hangar-like space will measure 60-000 square feet and will feature an angular roof that slopes down to the visitor entrance. In addition, there will be 15,000 square feet of extra space for welcome areas, gallery space, classrooms, a library and a gift shop.
The plans also include a bar that celebrates Florence Lowe “Pancho” Barnes, an acclaimed female pilot and founder of the first movie stunt pilots’ union. This will be called Pancho Barnes Happy Bottom Riding Club Bar.
Construction on the new museum has already begun, and the project is expected to be completed in 2024.
Renderings courtesy of Gensler
