Peterson Space Force Base Guide
Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Peterson Space Force Base plays a major role in U.S. Space Force operations. Before becoming a Space Force Base, this installation underwent several transformations.
It first opened in 1942 as Colorado Springs Army Air Base. That same year, it was renamed in honor of Lieutenant Edward Peterson, a member of the 14th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron who died in a training accident when his F-4 aircraft crashed. Like many wartime installations, however, activity slowed once WWII ended, and the base was deactivated in 1945.
However, when the Air Force became a separate branch in 1947, the installation was reactivated and served briefly as a Strategic Air Command airfield before being deactivated again in 1949. It reopened again in 1951, and in 1975, it officially became Peterson Air Force Base.
Petersen switched gears with the activation of Air Force Space Command in 1982 and the addition of the 1st Space Wing in 1983. In 2021, it was officially redesignated as Peterson Space Force Base.
Get more info on VA benefits for veterans, retirees, separating service members, spouses, dependents, and disabled veterans. Learn more about the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon program, monthly housing allowances, VA loans, and TRICARE.
Peterson Space Force Base Guide
- Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Zip Code: 80914. Other nearby ZIP codes serving Peterson are 80916, 80913, 80903, 80906, 80908, and 80914.
- Branch: U.S. Space Force
- Main Mission/Notable units: NORAD, USNORTHCOM, and Space Operations Command execute global missile warning and homeland defense.
- Main Operator: 719-556-7321
- Population: ~ 4,400 Active Duty, ~ 1,300 Reserve and Guard ~ 4,100 Civilian Workers and Contractors
- Official Website: Peterson Space Force Base
Arriving at Peterson Space Force Base
If you arrive at Peterson during duty hours (typically 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday), the check-in point is through your gaining unit’s Commander Support Staff (CSS) or administrative section. If your unit doesn’t have a CSS, report to the 21st Military Personnel Flight (MPF) in Building 350. If you arrive after hours, your first stop should be the Peterson Temporary Lodging Facility (TLF), Building 1425 to have your orders stamped and secure temporary lodging.
Newcomer’s Briefing
Peterson Space Force Base encourages incoming members and families to attend the Pre-Arrival Orientation, a virtual session held on the third Tuesday of each month at 0700 Mountain Time. To request the sign-up link or learn more, contact the Peterson Space Force Base Military & Family Readiness Center at 719-556-6141.
Peterson Space Force Base Housing & Lodging
On-Base Housing
Housing on Peterson Space Force Base is privatized and managed by Tierra Vista Communities. On-base living consists of three- and four-bedroom single-family homes, duplexes, and townhomes across several distinct neighborhoods.
It is critical to contact the Military Housing Office (MHO) as soon as you receive your orders to get on the waitlist.
- Military Housing Office (MHO): 719-556-4777 / 719-556-4332
- Privatized Housing Partner: Tierra Vista Communities | 888-718-7234
Off-Base Housing: Best Neighborhoods & Cities
Many service members and families choose to live in nearby communities that offer a range of housing styles, commute times, and lifestyles.
- Colorado Springs: The closest and most popular option, Colorado Springs is the largest city of the three. It surrounds Peterson Space Force Base and offers the shortest commute.
- Security-Widefield: This suburban community is seven miles south and southeast of Peterson and is known for its affordability and proximity to the installation.
- Fountain: Located about ten miles south of base, Fountain is a popular choice for families looking for a quieter, more rural feel.
Temporary Lodging (TLF) & On-Base Inn
The on-base inn is Pikes Peak Lodge. Reservations should be made as far in advance as possible, especially during peak PCS season. Pet-friendly units are limited; be sure to request one if needed.
- Reservations: 719-556-7851 / 1-888-AFL-ODGE, ext. 738
Peterson Space Force Base BAH, Cost of Living, and Allowances
Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is based on your rank, dependent status, and the base’s zip code. The cost of living in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is slightly higher than the national average.
See the 2026 BAH Rates for Peterson Space Force Base, 80914.
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Schools & Child Care Near Peterson Space Force Base
Local School Districts
There are no schools located directly on Peterson SFB; El Paso County is served by several different districts across Colorado Springs and the surrounding communities. Most military families connected to Peterson Space Force Base fall into one of a few primary districts, including Colorado Springs School District 11, Falcon School District 49, and Harrison School District Two.
Which district applies to your family depends largely on where you choose to live off base. Families residing on Peterson Space Force Base housing most commonly attend schools within District 11 or District 49.
The School Liaison Office (SLO) is your primary resource for all questions regarding school registration, transfers, and local education options.
- School Liaison Office: 719-556-3152
Child Development Centers (CDC)
Peterson Space Force Base offers several Child Development Centers (CDCs) for full-day, part-day, and hourly care, serving children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. All registrations are managed through the central MilitaryChildCare.com website. Family Child Care (FCC) homes are also available.
Get more info on VA benefits for veterans, retirees, separating service members, spouses, dependents, and disabled veterans. Learn more about the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon program, monthly housing allowances, VA loans, and TRICARE.
Key Contacts: Peterson Space Force Base Directory
- Base Operator: 719-556-7321
- Housing Office (MHO): 719-556-4777 / 719-556-4332
- Privatized Housing: 888-718-7234
- Temporary Lodging (Inn): 719-556-7851 / 1-888-AFL-ODGE, ext. 738
- In-Processing/Welcome Center: 719-556-6141
- School Liaison Office: 719-556-3152
- CDC Registration: militarychildcare.com
- Medical Clinic / TRICARE: 719-524-2273 / 719-526-2273
- Public Affairs Office: (719) 556-5185
BASE MISSION AND UNITS
The overall mission of Peterson SFB is to provide the infrastructure and support needed for homeland defense and global space operations. The base’s host unit, Space Base Delta 1, provides security, logistics, and medical support for over 111 mission partners.
Beyond the big headquarters like NORAD, USNORTHCOM, and U.S. Space Command, it also houses Space Operations Command (SpOC), which oversees the Guardians who actually run the satellites. You’ll also find Space Delta 2, which tracks tens of thousands of objects in space (from active payloads to orbital junk), and the 302nd Airlift Wing, a Reserve unit that flies C-130s for missions like aerial firefighting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Peterson Air Force Base
What is Peterson Space Force Base famous for?
Peterson SFB is the global headquarters for NORAD and U.S. Northern Command, making it the primary hub for defending North American airspace.
What is the zip code for Peterson Space Force Base?
The primary ZIP code for Peterson Space Force Base is 80914. That said, ZIP codes can vary by specific housing area or neighborhood. Other nearby ZIP codes commonly associated with Peterson Space Force Base and the surrounding Colorado Springs area include 80916, 80913, 80903, 80906, and 80908.
Can civilians visit Peterson Space Force Base?
Yes—civilians can visit Peterson Space Force Base. All visitors must obtain a base pass, even if they’re accompanied by a military ID card holder. The Visitor Control Center (VCC) issues passes; guests are encouraged to pre-register in DBIDS to speed up the process.
What is the closest major airport to Peterson Space Force Base?
The closest major airport is Colorado Springs Airport (COS), located approximately two to seven miles away (depending on which base gate you use) in Colorado Springs.
History of Peterson Space Force Base
Peterson SFB was originally opened in 1942 as Colorado Springs Army Air Base. This base was responsible for photo reconnaissance during World War Two. The same year the base opened, the first Colorado resident to die in a flight accident made headlines; Lieutenant Edward Peterson was a 14th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron member who died when his F-4 crashed. In 1942 the base was redesignated in his honor as Peterson Army Air Base.
About a year later, Peterson began expanding; bomber training began at the installation, and by 1944 the base added pilot training to the mix.
But it wouldn’t last. The base was deactivated in 1945. Two years later, the creation of the Air Force as a separate entity brought Peterson back to life as an Air Force Base. After serving as a Strategic Air Command airfield for a few years, the base was deactivated yet again in 1949.
Skip ahead to 1951 to find Peterson alive and well again with a redesignation to Peterson Air Force Base in 1975.
The future of Peterson began being written in 1982 when the Air Force activated a brand new major command or MAJCOM, Air Force Space Command. This milestone included the activation of the 1st Space Wing in 1983.
Fast-forward to the present, and we see Peterson redesignated yet again as a Space Force base; in 2020, the 21st Space Wing was reorganized as part of Space Base Delta 1, with Peterson AFB being redesignated as Peterson Space Force Base in the summer of 2021.
PCSing to Colorado
If you are relocating to Colorado in a permanent change of station move, know that you’ll typically be required to check in with the base housing office at your new assignment before entering into any legally binding housing agreement off post.
It’s also good to remember than in a larger military community like the one in Colorado Springs, healthcare could include longer wait times due to higher demand in military clinics. There are many military bases in and around Colorado Springs, so newcomers have multiple options depending on which base they are assigned to. You can look for veterans’ benefits in Colorado before you arrive to see what programs and services are available to you.
Army Bases in Colorado
- Fort Carson
- USAREC, Denver Battalion
Space Force Bases in Colorado
- Buckley Space Force Base
- Cheyenne Mountain Complex
- Peterson SFB
- Schriever SFB
- USAF Academy
Get more info on VA benefits for veterans, retirees, separating service members, spouses, dependents, and disabled veterans. Learn more about the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon program, monthly housing allowances, VA loans, and TRICARE.
Did you know? The State of Colorado can help you file claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Contact a county regional office near you to learn how to get professional assistance from a veteran service officer filing VA disability claims or applying for other VA benefits. Learn more.
Colorado Guard and Reserve Tuition Assistance
The State of Colorado offers tuition assistance to qualifying Guard and Reserve members who serve in the state. The Colorado state Tuition Assistance Program “awards up to 100% of tuition” and cannot exceed $5000 in benefits per semester.
Colorado VA Healthcare Centers
Academy VA Clinic
4102 Pinion Drive
Suite 1552
USAF Academy, CO 80840-2502
719-333-1507
Valor Point VA Domiciliary
7350 West Eastman Place
Lakewood, CO 80227-5006
720-376-6100
Golden VA Clinic
1020 Johnson Road
Golden, CO 80401-6002
303-914-2680
Mental health: 303-914-2680
Salida VA Clinic
920 Rush Drive
Salida, CO 81201-9669
719-539-8666
York Street VA Clinic
3836 York Street
Community Resource & Referral Center (CRRC)
Denver, CO 80205-3540
303-294-5600
VA Benefits Offices in Colorado
Denver VA Regional Benefit Office
155 Van Gordon Street
Lakewood, CO 80228
800-827-1000
VA Regional Benefit Satellite Office at PFC Floyd K. Lindstrom VA Clinic
3141 Centennial Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
719-327-5660
Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) at Fort Carson
This facility is for Active Duty members only.
1626 O’Connell Blvd.
Building 813
FT Carson, CO 80913
800-827-1280
VA Cemeteries in Colorado
Fort Logan National Cemetery
4400 W Kenyon Ave
Denver, CO 80236
303-761-0117
Colorado VA Vet Centers
Denver Vet Center
7465 East First Avenue
Suite B
Denver, CO 80230
303-326-0645
Other Military Bases in the Continental United States
- Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona
- Luke Air Force Base, Arizona
- Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas
- Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri
- Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada
About the author
Editor-in-Chief Joe Wallace is a 13-year veteran of the United States Air Force and a former reporter/editor for Air Force Television News and the Pentagon Channel. His freelance work includes contract work for Motorola, VALoans.com, and Credit Karma. He is co-founder of Dim Art House in Springfield, Illinois, and spends his non-writing time as an abstract painter, independent publisher, and occasional filmmaker.
