Peterson Space Force Base, located in beautiful Colorado Springs at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, is a critical center for homeland defense and space operations. With its runways shared with the city’s municipal airport, Peterson is a unique installation that hosts a multitude of vital missions. Its primary role is serving as the headquarters for two unified combatant commands: North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a binational U.S. and Canadian command, and U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM).

The missions of NORAD and USNORTHCOM place Peterson at the forefront of protecting the homelands. NORAD is responsible for aerospace warning, aerospace control, and maritime warning for North America, famously tracking everything from aircraft and missiles to Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. USNORTHCOM commands and controls Department of Defense homeland defense efforts and coordinates security cooperation with Mexico and the Bahamas. These commands make Peterson SFB the nerve center for the defense of the United States and Canada.

The host unit, the Peterson-Schriever Garrison, provides installation support not only for Peterson but also for Schriever SFB and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station. Peterson is also home to Space Base Delta 1, which supports numerous U.S. Space Force missions. Adding to the diverse operational environment is the 302nd Airlift Wing, an Air Force Reserve Command unit that flies the C-130 Hercules, specializing in tactical airlift and a unique aerial firefighting mission that serves the entire nation.

Personnel and their families stationed at Peterson SFB enjoy an exceptional quality of life, with unparalleled access to outdoor recreation and the amenities of the vibrant city of Colorado Springs. The high-altitude environment and the critical nature of the homeland defense mission create a unique and rewarding assignment for the thousands of service members who call Peterson home.