The Lompoc City Council has approved a one-year extension to the development timeline for the proposed Space Base California project, giving project leaders additional time to advance planning for the large-scale, space-themed destination envisioned for the city’s south side.
The proposed Space Base California development is planned for an 82-acre site located south of Hancock Drive and west of Highway 1. City officials said the extension will allow the project team to continue refining plans for a destination designed to inspire families, encourage interest in science and space exploration, and attract visitors to the Central Coast.
The project is being advanced by Pale Blue Dot, which has proposed building a comprehensive space-themed education and entertainment complex. Conceptual plans include a space center and visitor center, along with an amphitheater and indoor theater that could be used to view rocket launches from nearby Vandenberg Space Force Base. Additional elements previously outlined include a hotel, restaurants and retail spaces intended to support tourism and extended stays.
City documents describe Space Base California as a project aimed at sparking curiosity in young minds while connecting local residents and visitors to the growing commercial and scientific activity taking place along the Central Coast’s space corridor. The development is also positioned as a potential economic driver for Lompoc, complementing the region’s expanding role in aerospace and launch operations.
By granting the one-year extension, the City Council acknowledged the complexity of developing a project of this scale, particularly one that combines educational facilities, entertainment venues and hospitality components. The additional time is expected to help project proponents address financing, design coordination and regulatory requirements tied to the site.
No construction timeline has been finalized, and city officials noted that further updates will be provided as the project moves through its next planning phases. If completed, Space Base California would represent one of the most ambitious space-themed developments on the Central Coast, leveraging Lompoc’s proximity to Vandenberg Space Force Base and its growing reputation as a gateway to space.
Originally reported by Lisa André in Lompoc Record.
