These records provide documentation on the development of NASM after the huge success of its 1976 opening. The emphasis of the Museum's administration turned to revitalization of research efforts, professionalization of the staff, initiation of new projects and new exhibitions, an expanded program of publications, and plans to build both a new restaurant and an extension of the Museum at Dulles Airport.

The records primarily document the tenure of Walter J. Boyne as Acting Director and Director of NASM, 1982-1986, with small amounts of material pertaining to Michael Collins, Noel W. Hinners, James C. Tyler, Donald S. Lopez, and Martin O. Harwit. Also included are some records created by Boyne as Executive Officer, 1978-1979, Assistant Director for Resource Management and Operations, 1980, and Assistant Director, 1981.