The Central Air Force Museum, housed at Monino Airfield, 40 km east of Moscow, Russia, is one of the world's largest aviation museums, and the largest for Russian aircraft. 173 aircraft and 127 aircraft engines are on display, and the museum also features collections of weapons, instruments, uniforms (including captured U2 pilot Gary Powers' uniform), other Cold War-era US spy equipment, artwork, and other air-related items. A library containing books, films, and photos is also accessible to visitors. Tours are given by ex-pilots.The museum opened its doors in 1958. Prior to 1999, the museum was closed to the public, because of the display of classified prototypes from the era of the former Soviet Union. In July 2016, the museum is scheduled to close for an unspecified time. It has been reported that that the closure the adjoining military academy means that the funding and security will stop with the result in most of the exhibits being relocated to a new site although many of the larger aircraft (over 70 tons weight) may be scrapped.The museum is located next to the Military Academy named after Yu. A. Gagarin.Opening HoursSince the museum is situated on the territory of a military unit, all visitors must pass the entrance gate to the military complex. As of summer 2006 special permission to visit is no longer required. As of March 2012 there are apparently only 5 full-time employees at the museum, which opens on an occasional basis. Visitors are advised to confirm in advance when the museum is open.