The Atlas missile was born with the start of the Cold War, as the need to deliver nuclear warheads to America’s potential enemies became more urgent. Although initially designed as an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the ability to also use these rocket-powered weapons as space launch vehicles was immediately apparent; the Atlas, Titan, and Thor missiles were soon widely used for space launches.

The first Atlas used for a space mission launched the SCORE communications satellite into orbit on December 18, 1958. SCORE carried a radio transponder that broadcasted a Christmas message from President Eisenhower to the entire world from space. This was the first of many space missions that were to follow for the Atlas. After completion of the ICBM missile production, the Atlas program centered exclusive on production of space launch vehicles, continuing to the present day.

Upper rocket stages such as the Able, the Agena, and the Centaur were added to the Atlas to give it more power and efficiency for space payloads. The Atlas rocket was also used four times to launch humans into space. These Mercury missions included the flight of John Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth, and Wally Schirra on Mercury 8.

Wen General Dynamics sold its Space Systems Division to Martin Marietta and ceased operations in San Diego, the missile was donated to the Museum and moved to Gillespie Field, On March 11, 1996, the Atlas 2E was erected at its present location, where it remains an iconic beacon welcoming visitors to the San Diego Air & Space Museum’s Annex in El Cajon.

The Atlas Missile being delivered to the San Diego Air & Space Museum's Gillespie Field Annex in 1996.

Located at 335 Kenney Street in El Cajon, California, 92020 the San Diego Air & Space Museum's Gillespie Field location is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and contains an impressive collection of rare and iconic aircraft.