Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site |
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Oscar Zero Missile Alert Facility
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 Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site
Location in North Dakota
Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site
Location in the United States
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| Location | Griggs County , North Dakota, U.S. |
| Nearest city | Cooperstown, North Dakota |
| Area | 17 acres (6.9 ha) |
| Established | July 29, 2009 |
| Governing body | State Historical Society of North Dakota |
| Website | Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site |
The Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site is a special place near Cooperstown, North Dakota. It helps us understand a time called the Cold War. This site has two old missile locations: the Oscar-Zero Missile Alert Facility and the November-33 Launch Facility. They were once part of a big defense system for the United States. Today, you can visit them and learn about their history. The State Historical Society of North Dakota takes care of the site.
Contents
Exploring the Cold War Missile Site
This historic site shows us how the United States prepared for possible nuclear threats. It was a very important part of the country's defense during the Cold War. The site covers a large area around the Grand Forks Air Force Base.
What Was the Cold War?
The Cold War was a long period of tension. It lasted from the end of World War II until the early 1990s. During this time, the United States and the Soviet Union (now Russia) were rivals. They built many weapons, including nuclear missiles. Both sides wanted to be stronger than the other. But they never fought directly. Instead, they competed in other ways, like space exploration.
The Minuteman Missiles
The Minuteman missiles were a key part of the United States' defense. They were a type of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). This means they could travel very far, even across continents. The missiles were kept ready in underground silos. These silos were spread out over a huge area. The 321st Missile Wing had many of these sites.
The Oscar-Zero Site is special because it's the last launch control center that is still complete. Visitors can see how people worked there. You can also see the top part of the November-33 missile facility.
Visiting the Site Today
When you visit the Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site, you can take a guided tour. These tours teach you about the daily lives of the people who monitored the missiles. You can see the "topside" facilities, which are above ground. You can also go underground to see the launch control operations. It's a unique way to learn about an important part of history.
