'Top Gun: Maverick' Darkstar Aircraft on Display at Palm Springs Air Museum

Lockheed Martin showcases the futuristic jet from the blockbuster film at the local aviation museum.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:04am

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A dramatic black and white silhouette of the futuristic Darkstar aircraft, its angular wings and sleek body rendered in bold, graphic shapes that capture the innovative design of this fictional jet.The Darkstar aircraft from Top Gun: Maverick takes center stage at the Palm Springs Air Museum's special exhibit.Palm Springs Today

The Palm Springs Air Museum is hosting a special exhibit featuring the Darkstar aircraft from the 2022 film Top Gun: Maverick. Designed by Lockheed Martin, the futuristic jet was a standout element of the blockbuster movie starring Tom Cruise. Visitors can get an up-close look at the aircraft, including its fully outfitted cockpit built for filming, and hear directly from a Lockheed Martin representative about the creative process behind bringing the fictional jet to life on screen.

Why it matters

The exhibit offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the production of a major Hollywood film, blending aviation innovation and movie magic in a way that will captivate both aviation enthusiasts and movie fans alike. It also highlights the Coachella Valley's growing reputation as a hub for aerospace and entertainment industry crossover.

The details

The Darkstar aircraft on display was specifically built for the filming of Top Gun: Maverick and features a fully functional cockpit designed to immerse actors in the experience. Lockheed Martin, the aerospace company that designed the fictional jet, is providing a representative to share exclusive stories and never-before-seen photos from the production process.

  • The exhibit opened on April 2, 2026 at the Palm Springs Air Museum.
  • It will be on display through the end of the year.

The players

Lockheed Martin

An American aerospace, arms, defense, information security, and technology corporation that designed the Darkstar aircraft featured in Top Gun: Maverick.

Palm Springs Air Museum

An aviation museum located in Palm Springs, California that is hosting the special exhibit featuring the Darkstar aircraft from Top Gun: Maverick.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to offer visitors an up-close look at this incredible piece of cinematic and aviation history.”

— Museum Director

What’s next

The exhibit will remain on display at the Palm Springs Air Museum through the end of 2026.

The takeaway

This unique exhibit showcases the intersection of Hollywood storytelling and real-world aerospace innovation, offering a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse that will captivate both movie fans and aviation enthusiasts visiting the Coachella Valley.