CLEVELAND — Looking for something to do while the kids are home on winter break? The Visitor Center at NASA’s Glenn Research Center will offer a unique view of space exploration on Tuesday, Dec. 30 at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.
Through special 3D glasses that will be provided, visitors can view images and movies from space on a large computer-driven screen and will be able to interact with some of the computer models and data NASA scientists routinely use.
The presentation by Jay Horowitz, manager of Glenn’s Graphics Visualization Lab, will explore the design of new spacecraft and the complex behavior of gases in jet engines. It will also feature virtual walks through rocket test facilities and the crowded pattern of satellites and debris orbiting Earth. Visitors will learn the history of 3D imagery and how NASA has used it throughout the decades. Holiday images will be included for this special event.
To guarantee seating at the presentation, make reservations ahead of time by calling 216-433-9653.
“Make and take” crafts activities will be available for the kids. Eva, the inflatable astronaut, will be on hand to greet everyone. Visitors will have an opportunity to have a free “Picture Yourself in Space” digital photograph taken.
Before or after the presentation, visitors may explore the several galleries of the Visitor Center, which are filled with interactive exhibits and historic artifacts, including a moon rock, an original Apollo Command Module and a flight simulator. The Visitor Center’s gift shop will be open featuring NASA and space-related items for all ages.
Admission to the Visitor Center is free, and the building is wheelchair accessible. The Visitor Center is located at 21000 Brookpark Road. All adult visitors must present government-issued photo identification upon entering the research center’s main gate. Access to the Visitor Center is limited to U.S. citizens, and all vehicles are subject to inspection.
During the holiday season, the normal hours of operation are in effect: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday 1-5 p.m. However, the Visitor Center will be closed on Dec. 24, 25, 26, 31, 2008 and Jan. 1, 2009.
For further information about Glenn’s Visitor Center, call 216-433-2000 or visit:
