BUCKLEY SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFNS) -- Bill Nye, mechanical engineer, science communicator and television presenter, held a Q&A session and witnessed the Space Force mission firsthand during a visit to Buckley Space Force Base, Dec. 6.
Nye has an extensive background in science advocacy and education. With a mechanical engineering degree and a passion for promoting scientific literacy, he has become a prominent figure in popularizing scientific concepts for the general public.
Nye also visited Space Delta 4, a key component of the Space Force mission. At the Mission Control Station, he engaged in a comprehensive briefing gaining insights into the importance of Delta 4 in space operations.
“The Delta 4 mission and vision have evolved over time,” said Capt. Eric Honeyman, Delta 4, Space Based Infrared System Engineering branch chief. “Initially centered around missile warning, we’ve broadened our scope to encompass mission defense, battlespace awareness and technical awareness.”
In tandem with its core space mission, Buckley SFB is home to the 140th Wing and the Army Aviation Support Facility. Nye was escorted to the flightline, where he observed a HH-60 Black Hawk and an F-16 Fighting Falcon. Service members provided detailed insights into the capabilities of the aircraft and highlighted their crucial roles in the Buckley SFB mission that contributes to national security.
“The 140th Wing plays a critical role in our state and nation’s defense,” said Senior Master Sgt. Timothy Dodson, 140th Command and Control Operations superintendent. “We have pilots and maintainers fulfilling the F-16 Alert Mission 24/7, space operators managing two unique mission sets and hundreds of support personnel ensuring continuous mission success.”
Moving to the 460th Security Forces Squadron, Nye observed a K-9 demonstration, showcasing the integration of multifaceted strategies for safeguarding space assets. The accompanying briefing shed light on the responsibilities of the 460th SFS, military working dog section.
“Buckley’s military working dog section provides a physical and psychological deterrent, explosive detection, patrol and apprehension capabilities,” said Tech. Sgt. Dylan Cantrell, 460th SFS kennel master.
In addition to these experiences, Nye engaged in a Q&A session with service members and their families fostering a direct exchange of insight between the science advocate and those executing the Space Force mission.
“We’re all in this together,” Nye said. “If you could take away one thing from science, it would be that we’re more alike than we are different. Working together we can make the world a better place and you all are a great part of that. Thank you all for your service.”
This visit to Buckley SFB not only allowed Nye to witness the technological prowess displayed by the Space Force but also provided a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between public perception and the intricate realities of Space Force’s mission. The base visit underscored the Space Force’s pivotal role in the shaping of space exploration and national security.
“I’m thrilled our service members had the opportunity to meet Bill Nye and showcase their hard work and excellence,” said Col. Heidi Dexter, Space Base Delta 2 commander. “Team Buckley is looking forward to more exciting events that highlight our collective commitment to advancing space operations.”