NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., invites the public to share the “Spirit of Exploration” during its Open House on Saturday and Sunday, May 14 and 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors will go behind the scenes to learn about exciting missions to study the solar system, the universe, and our home planet. 

Once inside the gates, guests will be able to talk with scientists and engineers working on JPL missions, and find out how spacecraft are sent to other planets. Visitors can explore the planets as they walk through a model of the solar system, build their own spacecraft and have their picture taken in infrared light.

Visitors will see exhibits, displays and presentations about new technologies, solar system exploration and spacecraft communication. Spacecraft models will be on display and movies will highlight the excitement of the Cassini-Huygens mission to Saturn and the upcoming Deep Impact mission to a comet. 

The Open House is a fun and educational event for children too, with planetary puzzles and games, science projects and the chance to get rolled over by a rover. High school students will display robots they built for regional and national competitions.

Admission is free. No backpacks or ice chests are allowed, with the exception of small purses and diaper bags. Visitors, vehicles and personal belongings are subject to inspection. Food and beverages will be available, along with space souvenirs, and JPL and NASA merchandise.

JPL is located at 4800 Oak Grove Drive. Exit the 210 (Foothill) Freeway at the Berkshire Avenue/Oak Grove Drive exit in La Canada-Flintridge.  Parking is available near the Oak Grove Drive main gate and on the eastern boundary of JPL, accessible from Windsor Avenue via the Arroyo Boulevard exit off the 210 Freeway. Buses and tour guides will move people between different locations around the facility. Walking is required to some locations.

More information is available at http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/pso/oh.cfm or call (818) 354-0112.    Directions are available at http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/about_JPL/directions.cfm . 

The California Institute of Technology in Pasadena manages JPL for NASA.