Blast Off on an Unforgettable Adventure at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center!
Ready to launch your students on an educational journey that’s truly out of this world? Look no further than the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) in Huntsville, Alabama. This world-class institution is a launchpad for imagination, inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers. Opened in March 1970, the USSRC offers a journey through the history of space exploration, from the earliest innovations to the future of space travel. It’s the perfect destination to spark curiosity and ignite a passion for discovery.
Our exhibits inspire that spirit of innovation and discovery. Gaze up at the majestic National Historic Landmark, the Saturn V Rocket, a full-size rocket that powered the Apollo missions. This centerpiece of the Davidson Center for Space Exploration is a powerful symbol of human ingenuity. Walk beneath a full shuttle stack and get a close-up look at the Apollo 16 capsule, which carried astronauts to the Moon! The “ISS: Science on Orbit” exhibit gives you a glimpse into the daily life of astronauts aboard the International Space Station, while the ever-evolving “Dare to Explore: Frontiers of Space” exhibit showcases future-focused technologies like the Blue Origin BE-3U and BE-4 engines, offering a peek at where space exploration is headed.
The Ultimate Field Trip: A Day of Hands-On Discovery
To make the most of your visit, consider the Ultimate Field Trip package. This all-day adventure is a comprehensive experience designed specifically for student groups. It includes general admission, a dedicated tour guide, a show in the INTUITIVE Planetarium, and a hands-on student lab. This ensures your group gets to see and do everything without missing a beat! Your tour guide will lead you through key areas like Rocket Park, Military Park, and Shuttle Park, providing expert insights and answering questions along the way.
But the real magic happens in the student lab. This one-hour, hands-on session allows students to apply scientific principles in a fun and engaging way. They might build and launch their own mini-rockets, explore the physics of spaceflight, or learn about robotics. It’s an opportunity for students to move beyond passive observation and become active participants in the learning process.
A thrilling highlight of the day is a ride on the G-Force Accelerator and the Moon Shot simulator. On the G-Force Accelerator, students will experience three times the force of gravity as they spin, just like astronauts do during training. Then, on the Moon Shot, they’ll feel the incredible 4Gs of force during a simulated launch, followed by a few seconds of weightlessness as they rocket 140 feet into the air. These rides offer a powerful, firsthand sense of the physical forces astronauts endure during a space mission.
Dive into the Cosmos at the INTUITIVE Planetarium
A visit to the INTUITIVE Planetarium is a highlight no one should miss. With its massive 67-foot dome and cutting-edge technology, it offers a truly immersive and educational experience. The daily live, interactive shows are created by our planetarium team using the latest available data, making each presentation unique and highly engaging.
During your visit, take your students on a cosmic odyssey to the furthest reaches of the universe as revealed by the James Webb Telescope in the show “James Webb Telescope: The Story Unfolds.” Alternatively, gain some perspective in “Our Place in Space,” which zooms out to show the Milky Way and the entire observable universe. These shows are a fantastic way to educate, inform, and inspire your students about the vastness of the universe. The INTUITIVE Planetarium truly“ brings the universe down to Earth.”
Inspire the Next Generation at Space Camp
While the Ultimate Field Trip is a perfect day-long excursion, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is also home to the internationally acclaimed Space Camp®. For more than 42years, this program has inspired over a million alumni from around the world. Based on NASA astronaut training, the curriculum focuses on developing critical skills like teamwork and leadership. Space Camp® offers a variety of experiences, including space, aviation, cyber, and robotics camps for children ages 9 to 18, as well as programs for adults, families, and educators. If you’re looking for a multi-day experience that will have a lasting impact on your students, Space Camp® is the ultimate journey!
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center offers an unparalleled educational experience; it’s a place where history, science, and the future collide to create a memorable adventure for all.
To book your Ultimate Field Trip or learn more, call 1-800-637-7223 or email museumgroups@spacecamp.com. Get ready for an adventure that’s truly out of this world!