Welcome to the John C. Stennis Space Center, a premier rocket testing facility that also hosts NOAA’s National Data Buoy Center (NDBC). Located at Building 3205, Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, 39529, NDBC plays a vital role in collecting and disseminating critical oceanographic and atmospheric data. If you’re planning a visit to NDBC within the John Stennis Space Center, this guide provides essential information to ensure a smooth and informed experience.
The John C. Stennis Space Center, a NASA facility, is strategically positioned on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, easily accessible from Interstate 10 at Exit 2. This location places it approximately 35 miles west of Gulfport, Mississippi, and about 45 miles east of the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana. Its unique location provides both logistical advantages and a beautiful setting for the important work conducted here.
Navigating to NDBC at John Stennis Space Center, MS
This detailed map will guide you to NDBC’s key buildings within Stennis Space Center, including the Administrative Building 3205, the Mission Control Center Building 3203, and the Engineering & Logistical Facility Building 3202. Understanding the layout will help you navigate the center efficiently upon arrival.
For visitors arriving by air, we have provided direct links to driving directions from the two closest major airports:
Driving Directions from Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT) to John Stennis Space Center
Important Visitor Guidelines for John Stennis Space Center
As John Stennis Space Center is a secure federal facility, all visitors must adhere to strict security protocols. Please review the following guidelines carefully before your visit to NDBC:
- Federal Employees and Contractors: If you are a federal employee or contractor, your Federal Common Access Card (CAC) will grant you access to the Center under current security regulations.
- Visitors Without CAC: Visitors who do not possess a CAC must obtain a visitor badge upon arrival. To expedite this process, it is crucial to contact your NDBC sponsor and pre-arrange your visit, ensuring your name is added to the access list. This step is essential for gaining entry to John Stennis Space Center.
- Valid Photo Identification: All visitors are required to present a valid photo ID to receive a visitor badge. Please ensure you have acceptable identification readily available.
- Foreign National Visitors: Foreign nationals require a valid passport for entry, and importantly, must obtain advance approval prior to their visit. Arranging visits for foreign nationals to NDBC and John Stennis Space Center can take up to 60 days due to necessary security clearances. Please plan accordingly and initiate this process well in advance.
- Reception Centers: Stennis Space Center operates two visitor reception centers: the South Gate, conveniently located at the Interstate 10 entrance, and the North Gate, accessible from Interstate 59 at Highway 607. Choose the reception center most convenient to your arrival route.
- Allow Ample Time for Badge Issuance: Please allocate at least 30 minutes for the visitor badge issuance process. Wait times can vary and may be longer during peak hours. Arriving with sufficient time will help avoid delays.
NOAA at Stennis Space Center
John Stennis Space Center is home to two prominent NOAA entities: the National Weather Service/National Data Buoy Center (NWS/NDBC) and the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service/National Centers for Environmental Information (NESDIS/NCEI). Both organizations contribute significantly to NOAA’s mission from this location.
Airports Serving John C. Stennis Space Center
For air travel to John Stennis Space Center, the most convenient airports are Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) and Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT). Both offer rental car services and are within a reasonable driving distance of the space center.
