The San Diego Air & Space Museum is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit, founded in 1961. The Museum is unique to the region and serves the public through its mission – to celebrate the history of aviation and space; to educate the public regarding science and aerospace technology; and to inspire innovation and achievement. The SDASM was the first aero-themed museum to be accredited by the American Association of Museums (1986), is an affiliate of the Smithsonian, and nationally recognized as one of the country’s premier aerospace museum.