The much-anticipated Space Base California, a space-themed educational center in Lompoc, is taking shape with a clearly defined development timeline. The project has made significant progress following the approval of Measure R2024 in November 2024, which authorized the privatization of 82 acres of public land for its construction. Pale Blue Dot Ventures, the investor group behind the project, is now actively working to meet the necessary milestones for the next stages of development.

In 2024, Pale Blue Dot Ventures successfully raised $1.3 million through an initial “friends and family” fundraising round, with the total estimated cost of the project pegged at $121.5 million.

Project Construction Timeline and Key Deadlines

As outlined in Section 4.1 of the Lease/Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA) between Pale Blue Dot Ventures and the City of Lompoc, which was made effective on December 5, 2024, the project must adhere to a specific timeline to ensure that all construction requirements are met.

Step 1 – Project Description and CEQA Review

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Pale Blue Dot Ventures is currently working to submit a project description that will be sufficient for review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). In addition, they are preparing draft applications for any required amendments to the General Plan and zoning. This submission is due by December 5, 2025.

Next Steps and Deadlines

‍Once the CEQA review is completed, the company will be required to obtain all necessary land use entitlements within three years of the DDA's effective date, with the deadline set for December 5, 2027.

Subsequent to securing land use entitlements, Pale Blue Dot will need to apply for all necessary building permits within five years, by December 5, 2029, and will have a final deadline to begin construction by December 5, 2030.

The DDA also specifies a final deadline for the completion of construction, which is set for December 5, 2034.

Location and Vision for Space Base California

The 82-acre site for Space Base California is situated south of Hancock Drive and west of Highway 1 in Lompoc, an area with strong potential to become a hub for space-related education and tourism. The project is envisioned to be a space-themed educational center that aims to inspire curiosity and wonder about space exploration in both children and adults alike. With exhibits and interactive programs, the center hopes to foster a deeper understanding of the science and technology that shape the future of space travel.

Beyond just education, Space Base California is designed to serve as a focal point for the growing global space community, offering a venue for space enthusiasts from around the world to gather and celebrate their shared passion for space exploration.

Steve Franck, CEO of Pale Blue Dot Ventures, was unavailable for further comment at the time of this report, but the company is expected to provide updates as the project moves through the entitlement and construction process.

Local Economic Impact and Community Benefits

The development of Space Base California is expected to bring significant economic benefits to Lompoc and the surrounding areas. The project will create numerous jobs during both the construction and operational phases, offering opportunities in fields ranging from construction to educational programming. Furthermore, it is anticipated that the center will attract visitors from across the country and around the world, driving tourism and local business growth in the region.

The project’s educational mission is also aligned with California’s broader goals of promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and fostering the next generation of innovators and explorers. With its cutting-edge exhibits, Space Base California aims to play a key role in igniting young people's interest in these fields, paving the way for future space pioneers.

Looking Ahead

As of now, Pale Blue Dot Ventures is on track to meet the deadlines outlined in the DDA, with all stakeholders eagerly awaiting the next steps in the process. Updates regarding the project’s progress will continue to be shared as the necessary approvals are secured and construction gets underway.

The Space Base California project remains a beacon of hope for Lompoc and the surrounding communities, offering a unique blend of education, innovation, and tourism potential that could make the region a pivotal location in the future of space exploration.

Originally reported by Santa Maria Times.