This past year has been a time for learning and building for the Space Chapter, characterized by some successes and some disappointments. On the positive side, our interface with the Academy faculty and staff has been strong, and we have continued to grow as a Chapter of graduates interested in supporting space-related activities and awareness at USAFA. The Academy has shown a clear appreciation for the work of the Chapter, and has been eager to work with us.

Members have begun to bring their company and personal resources to help strengthen USAFA space awareness, including a donation of a model X-33 by Lockheed Martin, spearheaded by Dave Myers. Hughes Space and Comunications has also made models of its satellites available for display in the cadet area. The Academy's Operation Air Force summer training now includes cadet exposure to space-related sites, with some support from the Chapter (although there wasn't enough time in the schedule to do all the things we had in mind.) We are also continuing to work with the Academy to improve the Visitor Center's space-related exhibits.

The Chapter has been requested to participate in a review of USAFA's space-related curriculum, in support of the accreditation process. Since the Chapter represents a good cross-section of the "constituents" of the program, our perspectives will provide useful insights.

On the other hand, many of the activities we had envisioned have not happened as rapidly as we had hoped. In particular, it has been difficult to get the cadets and faculty to take advantage of our offers of support, such as speakers, activities with local military and civilian organizations, and other contacts. We also hope to become more involved with the construction and flight of cadet satellites. We are working to improve our ability to interact with cadets, recognizing that they are VERY busy.

The Chapter's new web site (http://hometown.aol.com/usafaspace/spacechapter.html) provides an improved focus for communication among our members. In fact, one unexpected feature of Chapter membership is that it has provided an effective way to exchange information about events which are affecting the future of the Air Force in space.

All graduates are welcome to join this chapter. Check out the web site for more insights into the kind of activities and topics under consideration, and contact Stan Rosen '69 at srosen6@aol.com or call 310-364-5746.