Defending America and the Galaxy: The New Star Wars Exhibit at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) – The force is strong in Simi Valley as the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library unveils its latest exhibit, “Defending America and the Galaxy: Star Wars and SDI,” running from March 15 to September 8, 2024. This display merges historical innovation and beloved science fiction, offering visitors a unique exploration of the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) alongside iconic Star Wars memorabilia.
On March 23, 1983, President Ronald Reagan took to the airwaves to announce a visionary defense project aimed at making nuclear weapons obsolete. Dubbed the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), this program proposed the development of a space-based missile defense system. The media, drawing parallels to the futuristic technology of George Lucas’s Star Wars saga, soon nicknamed it “Star Wars.”
The SDI initiative unleashed America’s entrepreneurial spirit and played a pivotal role in ending the Cold War. It not only revolutionized missile defense but also spurred advancements in satellite surveillance and communications technology. The legacy of SDI continues to benefit America and its allies to this day.
The new exhibit at the Reagan Library brings together the world of SDI and the Star Wars universe. Visitors will be treated to displays featuring original SDI artifacts, including an authentic Command Launch Equipment Console. Alongside these historical items, the exhibit showcases a treasure trove of Star Wars memorabilia, thanks to special contributions from Propstore and Entertainment Memorabilia Auctions.
Highlights include a Landspeeder from A New Hope, master replicas of Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber crafted from the original mold of The Last Jedi, and an original script signed by Dave Prowse, the actor who portrayed Darth Vader in the original trilogy. Fans can also marvel at Princess Leia’s dress, George Lucas’s original sketches of spaceships, and helmets worn by Darth Vader and Stormtroopers.
The exhibit will host several special events, including “Defending America & the Galaxy: Star Wars and SDI” lunch, tour, and panel discussions on June 15 and July 20. Guests can enjoy a Star Wars-themed three-course meal while learning about the making of Star Wars from a panel of experts. After lunch, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the exhibit and tour the Ronald Reagan Presidential Museum and Air Force One Pavilion.
On August 1, the Library will host a free event featuring Lt. Gen. Heath Collins, Director of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). Lt. Gen. Collins will discuss the MDA’s responsibilities, challenges, and contributions to national security in honor of the exhibition.
“Defending America and the Galaxy: Star Wars and SDI” is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by the confluence of historical defense initiatives and popular culture. The Reagan Library invites visitors to step into a world where the lines between science fiction and reality blur, showcasing the enduring impact of both Ronald Reagan’s visionary SDI program and George Lucas’s iconic Star Wars saga.
For more information and to purchase tickets for the special events, visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library’s official website. May the force be with you as you embark on this extraordinary journey through history and imagination.
