The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is holding a news conference for the official opening of its newest exhibit, Dare to Explore: Milestones to Mars, Friday, Feb. 19, at 10:30 a.m. Presented by Lockheed Martin, this is the debut of an exhibit that takes visitors on a six-decade journey of space exploration and the innovations and discoveries that have prepared humans to land on the moon and go beyond.
Developed by the Rocket Center’s exhibits team, Dare to Explore highlights historic artifacts from the Center’s collection as well as new technologies, including Lockheed Martin’s proposed lunar ascent stage for the Artemis mission’s return to the moon. Dare to Explore appeals to a broad audience with displays and activities that examine the past and demonstrate how we will live and work in space as we continue our exploration beyond earth’s orbit.
“We are grateful to Lockheed Martin for its support of this exhibit,” said Dr. Kimberly Robinson, the Rocket Center’s new Executive Director and CEO. “I can’t think of a better way to begin my time at the Rocket Center than to join with this exceptional partner as we open this exhibit created by our outstanding staff to show children and their families the complex history of space exploration and how much more we can achieve.”
“Lockheed Martin’s sponsorship is an expression of the importance of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s role inspiring future explorers, and our appreciation and decades-long commitment to Huntsville, NASA, the U.S. Army, and Missile Defense Agency,” said Robert Lightfoot, vice president Strategy & Business Development at Lockheed Martin Space. “From our work on NASA’s Orion human exploration spacecraft, to the lunar Human Landing System, to supporting every NASA mission to Mars, we are pleased to share our deep understanding of space exploration with the community through this exhibit.”
Marshall Space Flight Center Director Jody Singer is scheduled to speak at the Dare to Explore opening. The exhibit is located in the museum’s featured exhibit atrium and is included in general admission.