Located off Route 50 at the Washington Dulles International Airport, the Udvar-Hazy Center occupies a 177-acre parcel just south of the main terminal. Phase I of the project consists of the 53,000-sf James S. McDonnell Space Hangar, which, at the length of three football fields, encompasses three levels of aircraft. Phase I also includes the 164-ft tall Donald D. Engen Observation Tower, an IMAX theater and a food court.

Architectural firm Hellmuth, Obata + Kassabaum designed the flagship site and is also behind the design of this sister center. Hensel Phelps Construction Co. served as the project contractor.

"The architecture alone would draw crowds from all over, but combine this facility with our unparalleled collection and you've got an unbeatable attraction," says National Air and Space Museum director Gen. J.R. Dailey. Phase II of the endeavor will get under way once funds are in place, and will include a restoration hangar, archive facilities and storage.