posted 08-01-2024 06:00 PM               

The Stafford Museum requested this specific aircraft ("Raven Beauty," #819) not only because of its extensive combat history, but because it had been flown into combat by Captain Anthony "Lazer" Lazarsky, who happened to be Senator Inhofe's long-time chief of staff, and the actual writer of the bill that would release the aircraft for museum display. His name is seen on the canopy in honor of the work he did on the legislation to save several of these incredible aircraft for display.

After leaving NASA in 1975, Stafford resumed active duty with the U.S. Air Force. His first assignment was as the Commanding General of Edwards Air Force Base, and the Flight Test Center in California.

During this same period of time, Stafford witnessed an initial test of a small demonstration craft called “Have Blue” to see if its strange shape would make it less visible on radar. This was the first test of the technology that later became known as "stealth."

Within days of viewing the test data, Stafford wrote the original specifications for what would become the F-117 and then began the ultimately successful effort to win support from Congress.

posted 01-18-2025 04:56 PM               

Hear the story of the Oklahoma native who flew faster than anyone before, made the moon landing possible, innovated stealth technology, and helped us understand the universe in new and exciting ways. And see how the air, space, and science museums in Weatherford and Oklahoma City are carrying on his legacy—creating a life-changing experience for anyone who's ever dreamed of the stars.

posted 08-08-2026 04:48 PM               

Smithsonian ships Apollo-Soyuz diorama to Stafford museum in Oklahoma

A full-size recreation of the first orbital linkup between a U.S. and a Russian spacecraft is now on the move from the Smithsonian to a museum located off historic Route 66.

The Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP) diorama, an opening day display at the National Air and Space Museum 50 years ago, has a new home at the Stafford Air and Space Museum in Weatherford, Oklahoma.

posted 08-14-2026 11:51 AM               

The Apollo command and service module arrived at the beginning of this week, and the docking system components are now here as well! These pieces have made their way from the Smithsonian in Washington D.C., and are now located here in Weatherford, Oklahoma.

We are so thankful for Crozier Fine Arts for the incredible care and attention they've given these artifacts throughout this process. We're beyond grateful for the hard work and dedication that goes into making a move like this possible.