Saturday, May 2, 2026 • 2:00–5:30 PM PT
Culver City Julian Dixon Library (Tentative)
4975 Overland Ave, Culver City, CA 90230
Event Overview
The AIAA Los Angeles Section hosts an in‑person Town Hall featuring leading Cold War historians and authors Francis Gary Powers Jr., Christopher Sturdevant, and Franky Ortega. The program includes author presentations, a panel discussion, book signing, and an exhibition of Cold War–related items.
Speakers and panelists will share insights into California’s pivotal role in Cold War aerospace history, from Skunk Works innovations to missile defense sites and presidential legacies.
Schedule (PDT)
2:00 PM – Check‑in, exhibitions, networking
3:00 PM – Author presentations
3:40 PM – Panel discussion
4:20 PM – Book signing
5:00 PM – Program ends
5:30 PM – Adjourn
Speakers & Panelists
Francis Gary Powers Jr. – Founder & Chairman Emeritus, The Cold War Museum; consultant on Bridge of Spies; frequent History/Discovery/A&E contributor.
Christopher Sturdevant – Author of Cold War California and multiple state Cold War histories; USAF veteran; Chairman, Midwest Chapter of The Cold War Museum.
Franky Ortega – Author and educator at the Cold War Nike Missile Headquarters; documentary producer and military history lecturer.
Moderator: Dr. Jeff Puschell, AIAA Fellow, Northrop Grumman Space Systems
Co‑Moderator: Prof. Monica Chang
About the Presentation
The program explores California’s central role in Cold War defense—from Muroc Field and the sound barrier breakthrough to Skunk Works’ U‑2 and SR‑71 programs, Hollywood’s political tensions, and the state’s presidential influence.
Registration
Registration link provided by AIAA Los Angeles Section.
For panel participation or exhibition inquiries: contact@aiaa‑lalv.org.