In honor of our Planet Earth Celebration this Earth Month, we’re proud to partner with the Galveston Bay Foundation to shed light on what you can do to preserve and protect the resources that sustain our planet and power our local community.  

Protecting Our Planet, Starting in Your Backyard  

The mission at Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) is to preserve and protect Galveston Bay for generations to come. 

Galveston Bay is more than a body of water. It’s a crucial ecological and economic resource that supports local wildlife, industries, and our local communities. From space, astronauts can see the intricate web of water systems like Galveston Bay that connects our planet. And here on Earth, we have a responsibility to protect them. 

“Our Big Blue Planet is home to incredible diversity, and nowhere is that better reflected than Galveston Bay. From dolphins to diamondback terrapins, prairie dawn to prairie blazing star, our Bay needs your help to stay healthy for generations,” says Suzanne Simpson, Land Acquistion Manager at GBF. 

Why It Matters 

Our local environment plays a key role in the global ecosystem. Galveston Bay provides habitat for hundreds of species, helps filter pollutants, and serves as a vital buffer against storm surges. Like many natural resources, the Bay is under pressure from pollution, development, and climate change. 

We believe that education leads to action. By learning more about our local environment, we become better stewards of Earth—our only home in the cosmos. 

“We use Galveston Bay in so many ways—from the fish we catch to the water we recreate into the sunsets we enjoy on West Bay,” said Bob Stokes, President of Galveston Bay Foundation. “Protecting it means protecting our way of life—and the health and enjoyment of future generations.”

What You Can Do 

Here are a few ways you can join Galveston Bay Foundation in preserving this vital resource: 

1. Reduce Plastic Use 
Single-use plastics often end up in our waterways. Switch to reusable bags, bottles, and containers to keep plastic out of the bay. 

2. Volunteer at our Cleanups 
Get hands-on by participating in our local cleanup and planting events. It’s a fun and impactful way to make a difference right in your community. 

3. Plant Natives 
Native plants require less water and help reduce runoff into the Bay. Whether in your backyard or community garden, every plant helps. We grow native plants at our Eco-Center and have seasonal plant sales. Our Spring Plant Sale is happening Saturday, May 3^rd.  

4. Educate Others 
Talk to friends and family about the importance of Galveston Bay. Awareness is the first step toward action. One of our favorite ways to learn about our city’s wildlife is by reading Wild Houston, by our very own Suzanne Simpson and John Williams.  

5. Support Environmental Organizations 
Consider donating to organizations like Galveston Bay Foundation. Your support helps amplify our impact. 

When we think about preserving our planet, it can feel overwhelming. But meaningful change begins at the local level—with communities coming together to protect the places we love. 

Join Space Center Houston and the Galveston Bay Foundation in shaping a sustainable future—because Earth is the only home we have, and it’s worth preserving. 

Interested in learning more? Get your ticket to our Planet Earth Celebration, Saturday & Sunday, April 26 & 27.  

The post Partnering for the Planet: Galveston Bay Foundation Spotlight appeared first on Space Center Houston.

A legacy of flight fueled by curiosity

April 12 marks the anniversary of STS-1, the first flight of the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1981. Among those behind the scenes of that historic mission was Stewart McAdoo, who served in NASA’s Mission Planning and Analysis Division (MPAD). Today, he continues to share his knowledge and passion as a volunteer at Space Center Houston.

We asked McAdoo questions about his role in STS-1 and how he continues to champion curiosity through his work with guests.

On April 12, 1981, the day of the STS-1 launch, you stood at the threshold of a new chapter in human spaceflight. As someone who helped bring space and people closer together that day, what do you remember most vividly from the experience?

McAdoo: It was, for us who worked on the design and expected operation of the shuttle, a feeling of exhilaration that our planning work was going to be a success.

STS-1 was more than a launch—it marked the debut of a reusable space vehicle and the beginning of a vision for long-term human spaceflight. What did it mean to you to be part of a moment that revealed how science and humanity together can power exploration beyond Earth?

McAdoo: I worked in MPAD. It was a changeover for all of us, from contributing to the design and planning for how to operate to actually operating the vehicle. I worked on various configurations and operations, especially rendezvous and proximity operations with other vehicles.

You worked alongside a dedicated team of engineers, mission planners and support crew to overcome enormous challenges. What made that crew so unique—and how did your experience reflect the value of being people-driven in a time of such incredible innovation?

McAdoo: You make it sound so very special. For those of us in MPAD, it was gratifying that we finally had a vehicle, and now we had to work on how to use it. Remember, most of us were involved in a much more challenging project, Apollo.

Space Shuttle Columbia’s launch represented decades of curiosity, perseverance and bold thinking. As a champion of this kind of progress, what moments stand out to you as proof that asking “what if” can lead to something truly extraordinary?

McAdoo: We in MPAD, especially the Advanced Mission Design Branch, were happy to see the vehicle we helped configure actually get to flying. Then, we had to work out how to use it.

As someone who witnessed and contributed to a turning point in space history, what message would you share with today’s explorers—those inspired by the past and looking to a future shaped by wonder, ingenuity and purpose?

McAdoo: I think the message is never to think something can’t be done. We worked through several configurations, adjusting the design mostly to fit budget limitations.

Today, as a volunteer at Space Center Houston, you continue to inspire others with your story and presence. What motivates you to stay involved, and how do you see your role in championing curiosity for new generations of space enthusiasts?

McAdoo: I volunteer to share my experiences with the space program, particularly Apollo, with those who wonder how Saturn V and Apollo worked. Most people I speak with at Rocket Park weren’t alive when Apollo flew. I also answer questions about the shuttle near the cockpit of the mockup atop the 747 to help visitors understand how it worked. There’s a huge lack of understanding about manned spaceflight; I want to do my part to correct that.

Ready to share your own love of space? Learn more about our Volunteer program.

The post From STS-1 to Today: Stewart McAdoo’s Lifelong Mission to Inspire appeared first on Space Center Houston.

HOUSTON, TEXAS (APRIL 7, 2025) – Each year, Space Center Houston hosts the HUNCH (High School Students United with NASA to Create Hardware) Culinary Challenge Finals, where the top ten high school teams compete to create the next best dish for space to support astronauts.

The challenge, which celebrates its 10^th year, began with 64 teams worldwide, narrowing down to the top 10 performing teams to compete at the space and science museum. The dishes are judged by 24 experts, including food scientists from the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) Food Lab, astronauts, guest chefs, NASA administrators, and scholarship partners.

Joining as a guest judge is Emmanuel Chavez, Houston’s Michelin-starred chef and owner of Tatemo, and a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best New Chef. Chavez recently won Chef of the Year at the 2025 Tastemaker Awards, adding to his previous accolades as Rising Star Chef in 2023 and Restaurant of the Year in 2024.

“We are thrilled to welcome talented students from around the world to Space Center Houston for the 10th annual HUNCH Culinary Challenge Finals,” said William T. Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston. “It’s inspiring to see the delicious meals they create as young innovators, helping to fuel tomorrow’s space explorers.”

A pasta-themed dish is to be prepared on-site, following NASA Food Lab standards, to sustain astronauts working and living aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

Prior to the finals, teams compete in a preliminary round in their hometowns. The top 10 teams with the highest score earn an invitation to the one-day challenge at Space Center Houston’s Food Lab Cafe.

Competing in the April 8 culinary challenge are two Texas teams from Angleton and Allen. In the preliminaries, three international schools participated from Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Spain, with Luxembourg making it to the final round.

HUNCH’s Final Top Ten:

1. Venango Technology- Vegetarian Pad Thai- PA

2. North Pointe HS- Beef Stroganoff- MD

3. Phoebus HS- Rasta Pasta- VA

4. Angleton HS- Chicken and Chickpea Pasta- TX

5. RCTC- Spicy Cajun Fettuccini with Roasted Veggies- MI

6. Wekiva- Spinach Linguine with Creamy Mushroom- FL

7. Allen STEAM- Pad Thai- TX

8. Old Colony- Pumpkin Pasta- MA

9. Northeast Area Technical- Zesty Spesto- AR

10. Luxembourg- Luxembourg Ravioli Chicken-Europe

During the finals, Space Center Houston visitors can watch the students compete live, included with their general admission ticket. The student team’s start time will run from 9:00 a.m. – 11:20 a.m., with judging to begin at 11:30 a.m. and conclude by 1:00 p.m.

The winning dish will be served aboard the ISS, after being processed by the NASA JSC Food Lab to meet its food processing procedures and nutritional requirements. The winning team and entrée will be announced after the April 8 competition.

For more information, visit  HUNCH Culinary Challenge Finals – Space Center Houston.

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About Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston’s shared purpose is to bring people and space closer together. Over 1.3 million visitors and more than 250,000 students and educators visit each year to connect with the significance of space exploration to pursue a path in STEM or follow along as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to make new discoveries. Space Center Houston is owned by the Manned Space Flight Education 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and generates an annual $118M economic impact to the Greater Houston area. Space Center Houston is a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, and a Certified Autism Center. Learn more at spacecenter.org.

About NASA HUNCH Culinary

2024-2025 HUNCH Culinary Challenge(Pasta Dish) Partnering with the American Culinary Federation, Sullivan University, World Chefs, and the Johnson Space Center Food Lab.

The Astronaut Culinary Challenge develops food items for the Astronauts aboard the International Space Station. Each year there is a new theme given out to the schools where the students create new dishes taking into account food processing procedure and nutritional requirements so that their items will meet the standards of the NASA Johnson Space Center Food Lab.

Schools in the US and abroad bring dishes into their local NASA or partner center for a taste competition with different food industry professionals and personnel. After these preliminary culinary competitions, those with the highest scores from across the world are invited to Johnson Space Center for a final competition where their work will be judged by NASA Food Lab personnel, industry professionals, ISS program office, and Astronauts for quality, taste, their work on the research paper, and presentation video. The winning entree will be processed by the Johnson Space Center Food Lab and sent up to the station for the astronauts to enjoy.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Rashena Franklin, Manager of Communications

713.301.4577

Illiana Luna, Public Relations Specialist

iluna@spacecenter.org

The post Space Center Houston Hosts 10th Annual HUNCH Culinary Challenge Finals  appeared first on Space Center Houston.

“That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” – NASA Astronaut Neil Armstrong, July 21, 1969, Sea of Tranquility, Moon.

We believe learning can and should be fun—you just need the right tools! To celebrate the launch of our Summer 2025 Explorer Camps we’ve teamed up with Moonshotkidz. Experience the joy of STEM learning—just like our campers, with a hands-on interactive activity the whole family can enjoy.

Get ready to have a blast! Explore our latest project with Moonshotkidz founder and creator, Irina Rymshina.

What Is Moonshotkidz All About?

By Irina Rymshina

I see Moonshotkidz as ‘Yoga for the mind’—a fun, hands-on way to reconnect with your sense of wonder and let your imagination soar. We blend traditional tools like paper and color pencils with new ones like acrylic markers and cutting-edge tech like paper electronics, 3D printing, laser cutting, and others. It’s all about playful experimentation, uncovering hidden talents, and proving that creativity has no age limit. Whether you’re sketching after decades or diving into a 3D printer for the first time, Moonshotkidz shows that starting small can lead to big discoveries. It’s about having fun and seeing where those little steps take you, no matter your background or experience.

As the founder of Moonshotkidz, my journey began with a deeply personal spark. When I became a mother, I dove headfirst into my son’s learning adventure. Picture me like a kid in a candy store, eagerly exploring every book, tool, and toy related to creativity and STEM. While playing and experimenting alongside my son, something magical happened—I rediscovered my own inner child. My passion for drawing, arts, and crafts roared back to life. I wasn’t just teaching him; I was equally enthralled, inspired daily to learn, create, and tinker with new materials. Those precious moments with my son and husband ignited a fire in me that I couldn’t keep to myself.

That’s when I started posting my projects on social media, and soon after, I founded Moonshotkidz. But here’s the twist—it’s not just for kids or artists; it’s for everyone. I created Moonshotkidz to help awaken that playful, curious spirit in people of all ages—busy professionals, seniors, executives, you name it. My mission? To inspire you to take those first, easy steps into creativity with beginner-friendly projects. Just like the Moon landing began with ‘one small step,’ every big idea starts with a single, curious experiment.

Beyond the Home

The inspiration doesn’t stop at your doorstep. Visiting places like art museums, science centers, and Space Center Houston takes it to another level. These incredible spaces showcase human ingenuity—think stunning artwork and groundbreaking discoveries—and remind us that anyone can make a difference. They light a spark of possibility, showing that big dreams are built from small, deliberate steps. With Moonshotkidz, family time becomes a launchpad for creativity, connection and aspiration.

My Moonshotkidz NASA Saturn V Rocket DIY Paper Electronics Project

I’m beyond grateful and thrilled that Space Center Houston gifted my son an opportunity to attend its Junior Robotics Explorer Camp—where he had the chance to participate in hands-on activities, just like this DIY project. Having never visited Texas before, this feels like an incredible opportunity for our family. Houston holds a legendary place in history as the beating heart of NASA’s mission to land humans on the moon. It serves as the mission control center, communication lifeline, and decision-making hub, not to mention the home of astronaut training and preparation. The Saturn V rocket stands as a towering symbol of human creativity, technology, and sheer determination—transforming the impossible dream of a person stepping onto the lunar surface into reality. For centuries, millions must have gazed at the night sky, captivated by the moon’s beauty, yearning to reach out and touch it.

When my son was a baby, one of his very first words was “Moon.” He’d stare up at the sky, point with tiny fingers, and chant “Moon, Moon, Moon” in a voice brimming with wonder—a sound so precious it still echoes in my heart. That same sense of awe inspired me to create this simple DIY Paper Electronics project, which I’m so excited to share through Space Center Houston.

This project is more than just a craft—it’s a small spark of that lunar curiosity we all carry. Like the Saturn V, built through countless meticulous steps, it invites you to embark on your own journey of creativity and discovery. I hope it brings you the same joy and wonder my son’s first words brought me.

DIY “NASA Saturn V Rocket” interactive light-up card. Easy and fun paper circuit project for beginners.

You will need:

1. 2 LED diodes (orange)
2. Conductive copper tape (5mm)
3. Coin cell battery 3v (CR2032)
4. Magnet (neodymium)
5. Paper (176gsm)
6. Paper (90gsm)
7. Markers

Instructions:

1. Draw your space craft and your circuit design. Color it however you like.
2. Fold the card in the middle along the dashed line.
3. Cut out the outline of the rocket fire (marked with number 1) using a craft knife.
4. Cut a piece of thinner paper measuring 8x13cm and glue inside the card. Make sure it covers entire area of the fire. Color it if you like.
5. Cut a piece of paper measuring 1.5 x 5 cm. Fold it in half. Glue the switch to the spot indicated
6. Stick the conductive tape along paths A and B.
7. Place LED diodes on the spots indicated. Ensure the positive (longer) and the negative (shorter) leg are in correct positions.
8. Cut four small pieces 1cm each of conductive tape and stick them on top of each leg of the LEDs.
9. Stick the conductive tape along paths C and D.
10. Stick the conductive tape along path E. Ensure it goes over the switch.
11. Cut a 1 cm piece of conductive tape. Fold it into a loop, with the sticky side out, and stick it to the negative (-) side of the battery.
12. Place the battery on the spot indicated. Ensure the negative (-) sticky side facing down.
13. Test the circuit by pressing on top of the switch.
14. Attach four small pieces of double-sided sticky tape to each corner of the card and stick the card together.
15. Cut out a flag along the solid line.
16. Attach a magnet to the back of the flag using double-sided sticky tape.
17. To activate the card, place the flag on the moon.
18. You also buy the template for download and print from moonshotkidz.etsy.com

The post Saturn V Rocket to the Moon with Moonshotkidz appeared first on Space Center Houston.

HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 10, 2025) – Space Center Houston will host Academy Award Winner Tom Hanks, Lightroom, and the production team for a VIP premiere of The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, a groundbreaking, immersive film experience at Space Center Houston.

Narrated and co-written by Hanks, The Moonwalkers isa multi-imaged presentation, with projection mapping on the walls and floor of the newly renovated 270-degree Space Center Theater. The film offers an intimate understanding of what it was like for the first men who walked on the moon and the community involved in preparing for the upcoming Artemis missions. Featuring interviews with Hanks and Artemis astronauts, the film explores their extraordinary experiences on a truly spectacular scale.

Video & Interview Opportunities:

Please contact us for daytime interviews

• William T. Harris, President and CEO of Space Center Houston

• Lightroom and 59 Studio – Richard Slaney, CEO
  Lightroom began as a joint venture between 59 Studio and London Theatre Company. Alongside The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, Lightroom’s repertoire of world-class artist-led programming includes David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away), Vogue: Inventing the Runway and the upcoming Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs.
  
• Co-writer Christopher Riley
  Riley, the award-winning writer-director, is known for his work on several groundbreaking space documentaries for the BBC, Netflix, and PBS, as well as movies and films.  
  
• Anne Nikitin
  Nikitin composed the stunning original score for The Moonwalkers which was recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at London’s iconic Abbey Road Studios. She is known for her works on the Apple TV+ hit series Hijack starring Idris Elba and American Animals with Evan Peters and Barry Keoghan.

About Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston’s shared purpose is to bring people and space closer together. Over 1.3 million visitors and more than 250,000 students and educators visit each year to connect with the significance of space exploration to pursue a path in STEM or follow along as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to make new discoveries. Space Center Houston is owned by the Manned Space Flight Education 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and generates an annual $118M economic impact to the Greater Houston area. Space Center Houston is a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, and a Certified Autism Center. Learn more at spacecenter.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS:   

Rashena Franklin, Manager of Communications  
713.301.4577

Illiana Luna, Public Relations Specialist  
iluna@spacecenter.org 

The post Space Center Houston Welcomes Tom Hanks for a VIP Premiere of The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks appeared first on Space Center Houston.

HOUSTON, TEXAS (FEBRUARY 14, 2025) – Experience a cinematic masterpiece with The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, presented by Lightroom at Space Center Houston.  The Moonwalkers takes audiences behind the scenes of the Apollo missions in stunning detail, with narration by the iconic Tom Hanks. 

Space Center Houston is the first in the Americas to premiere The Moonwalkers. A VIP reception and screening was held on February 13 with Artemis II astronauts, NASA Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche, and Apollo 11 Flight Director Gene Kranz in attendance.

“I’m delighted to be bringing this project home to the place where the moonwalkers lived and worked throughout the Apollo program and where today’s Artemis crews are preparing to follow in their footsteps,” said Hanks.

Set in the newly upgraded Space Center Theater, the immersive experience transports viewers into space through seven projectors, offering an enhanced 270-degree visual display, along with closed captioning for accessibility by GLOBO, and multiple subwoofer speakers.

“We are thrilled to be the first venue in the Americas to showcase this extraordinary film,” said William T. Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston. “The Moonwalkers aligns perfectly with our mission of bringing people and space closer together.”

The Moonwalkers, co-directed by Nick Corrigan and Lysander Ashton of 59 Studio, brings humanity’s historic journey to the Moon to life with remastered visuals by Andy Saunders.

Co-written by Academy Award Winner Tom Hanks and double BAFTA-nominated writer and director Christopher Riley whose groundbreaking films and television programs have been shown on BBC, Netflix, and PBS, The Moonwalkers offers exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews with Artemis II astronauts — Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, as we embark on our return to the Moon. The film is accompanied by a stunning original score composed by Anne Nikitin whose previous works include the Apple TV+ hit series Hijack starring Idris Elba and American Animals with Evan Peters and Barry Keoghan.

The Moonwalkers is included in general admission to Space Center Houston. Showtimes are every hour, on the half hour.

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About Lightroom

Working together with the greatest artistic talents across art, music, film, fashion, science
and more, Lightroom has reimagined what an immersive experience can look like. Lightroom
began as a joint venture between 59 Studio and London Theatre Company. Lightroom’s
CEO is Richard Slaney, and its executive chair is Nick Starr, co-founder of London Theatre
Company. Lightroom is backed by a group of investors led by Sir Leonard Blavatnik who is
represented by Danny Cohen, President of Access Entertainment, and Mike Sherwood,
former co-CEO of Goldman Sachs International. Alongside The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, Lightroom’s repertoire of world-class artist-led programming includes David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away), Vogue: Inventing the Runway and the upcoming Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs.

About Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston’s shared purpose is to bring people and space closer together. Over 1.3 million visitors and more than 250,000 students and educators visit each year to connect with the significance of space exploration to pursue a path in STEM or follow along as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to make new discoveries. Space Center Houston is owned by the Manned Space Flight Education 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and generates an annual $118M economic impact to the Greater Houston area. Space Center Houston is a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, and a Certified Autism Center. Learn more at spacecenter.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:   

Rashena Franklin, 713.301.4577

The post The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks Opens Today at Space Center Houston appeared first on Space Center Houston.

HOUSTON, TX (MARCH 5, 2025) – Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival with presenting sponsor, Wellby Financial celebrates its fourth year this spring break. The event will occur at the space and science museum Sunday, March 9 through Saturday, March 22 with Third Eye Blind headlining weekend one on Saturday, March 15, and The Revivalist onweekend two, Saturday, March 22!  

Last year, tens of thousands attended the Moon 2 Mars Festival, which celebrated NASA’s Artemis program. This program aims to return astronauts to the Moon, using innovative technologies to build a permanent presence on the lunar surface.   

The 2025 Moon 2 Mars Festival is set to deliver an out-of-this-world experience with electrifying live music, classic BBQ festival favorites, and days of cosmic exploration for all ages with cutting-edge space technology.  

High Activations Days Include: 

10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. and 9:00 A.M. -10:00 P.M. 
Sunday, March 9 
Thursday, March 13 – Sunday, March 16 
Thursday, March 20 – Friday, March 22 

All Activations Open 

3/13: Innovation Tent, STEM Zone Tent, Food & Drinks 
3/14: Meet an Astronaut, Innovation Tent, STEM Zone Tent, Food & Drinks 
3/15: DJ, Third Eye Blind, Meet an Astronaut, Innovation Tent, STEM Zone Tent, Food & Drinks 
3/20: Space Innovation Tent, Kid’s Tent, Food & Drinks 
3/21: Meet an Astronaut, Innovation Tent, STEM Zone Tent, Food & Drinks 
3/22: Concerts & LIVE Music, Meet an Astronaut, Innovation Tent, STEM Zone Tent, Food & Drinks 

For tickets and the complete schedule and operating hours of the Moon 2 Mars Festival, visit https://spacecenter.org/moon2marsfestival/

At the Moon 2 Mars Festival, guests can enjoy The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, a new immersive experience and the first in America! In the recently renovated Space Center Theater, guests can embark on the retelling of Apollo missions within the 270-degree theater space, where remastered visuals span across three walls and the floor. Moonwalkers is included with general admission with showtimes available every half hour. 

Visit spacecenter.org for more information about festival activities and hours of operation. Tag us and join the conversation on social media at @spacecenterhou using #Moon2MarsFestival. 

Want more Moon 2 Mars content? Check out related blog posts here.

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About Wellby Financial 

Wellby Financial is an award-winning, nationally ranked, member-owned credit union proudly serving Greater Houston. Wellby was originally established in 1961 to serve the employees and families of NASA Johnson Space Center. We have grown into one of the largest credit unions in Houston, serving more than 131,497 members with 22 branches and more than $2.7 billion in assets. 

About Space Center Houston  

Space Center Houston’s shared purpose is to bring people and space closer together. Over 1.3 million visitors and more than 250,000 students and educators visit each year to connect with the significance of space exploration to pursue a path in STEM or follow along as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to make new discoveries. Space Center Houston is owned by the Manned Space Flight Education 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and generates an annual $118M economic impact to the Greater Houston area. Space Center Houston is a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, and a Certified Autism Center. Learn more at spacecenter.org.  

MEDIA CONTACTS:   
Rashena Franklin, Manager of Communications 
713.301.4577  

Illiana Luna, Public Relations Specialist    
iluna@spacecenter.org

The post Space Center Houston and Presenting Sponsor Wellby Financial Announce Moon 2 Mars, The Biggest Space-Themed Festival in Texas appeared first on Space Center Houston.

1. Catch a Stellar Performance by Third Eye Blind and The Revivalists  

Get inspired by our Moon 2 Mars Spotify playlist featuring our TWO-HEADLINERS! 

On Saturday, March 15, get ready for an unforgettable night as Third Eye Blind takes the stage! With iconic hits like “Semi-Charmed Life,” “Jumper,” and “How’s It Going to Be,” this San Francisco-based band has earned a devoted fanbase and millions of albums sold. Their live performance promises to be electric, making it the perfect way to groove under the stars.  

Plus, our second headliner, The Revivalist takes the stage on Saturday, March 22. Known for their soulful alt-rock sound and electrifying live performances, this band has captivated audiences with anthemic hits like “Wish I Knew You,” which has amassed over 800 million streams, along with their latest album Pour It Out Into The Night. Get ready for an unforgettable night of powerful music that will leave you feeling energized and inspired! 

2. Explore Space Technology at the Innovation Tent 

The Moon 2 Mars Festival is your chance to dive deep into space innovation! Our Innovation Tent is the place to explore cutting-edge technologies with aerospace companies.  You’ll get a firsthand look at the incredible advancements being made as humanity prepares to return to the Moon and Mars. Don’t miss out on this interactive, awe-inspiring experience, available on March 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22.  

3. Meet an Astronaut and Get Inspired 

Ever dreamed of meeting an astronaut? The festival makes that dream a reality! On select days, including March 14, 15, 21, and 22, you can meet astronauts who will share their incredible experiences in space and achievements. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity only at Space Center Houston.  

4. Savor Delicious Food and Drinks 

What’s a festival without amazing food? During the Moon 2 Mars Festival, you can enjoy a variety of mouthwatering dishes and drinks from Wolfgang Puck. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before heading to an activation or settling in for a night of music, fuel your excitement with traditional favorites like our smoked turkey legs, tender pulled pork and irresistible barbecue brisket sandwiches and loaded ‘Nova’ nachos available throughout the festival’s duration!  

5. Catch The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks The First American Premiere in Space City! 

Experience the Apollo missions like never before with, The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks. Relive the stories through Tom Hanks’ narration, depicting humanity’s never-ending curiosity and perseverance featuring interviews with the NASA Artemis II crew.  In the newly renovated Space Center Theatre, guests will embark on an immersive journey within a 270-degree theater space, where remastered visuals span across three walls and the floor. This unforgettable experience is included with general admission and runs every half hour. 

Rain or shine! Access to the festival is included in the cost of general admission for March 9-22, 2025. For the complete schedule and operating hours of the Moon 2 Mars Festival, visit https://spacecenter.org/moon2marsfestival/  

The post Top 5 Things to Do at Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival, Presented by Wellby Financial   appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Moon 2 Mars Festival offers a lineup of electrifying concerts! This year, we’re bringing two internationally recognized bands to headline the festival: On Saturday, March 15, Third Eye Blind take the Moon 2 Mars Stage at 7 p.m., set in front of our NASA 905 shuttle carrier aircraft carrying a replica of shuttle replica Independence. Then the following weekend on Saturday, March 22, New Orleans-based 8-piece rock band The Revivalists perform and close out the festival. Save the Spotify playlist below to dive into each band’s most popular hits to discover a new favorite track or turn it on during your drive to the festival!

Interested in attending both concerts? We recommend purchasing a membership to Space Center Houston. Not only will you get access to both concerts and a year’s worth of admission, Space Center Houston members receive special perks during the festival, exclusive access to special events. 

The post Who’s got the AUX? Discover the music of our 2025 Moon 2 Mars Festival artists  appeared first on Space Center Houston.

This year’s festival is packed with live music, cutting-edge space tech, out-of-this-world entertainment and a stellar menu of festival-only dishes that are sure to satisfy any Space City foodie.

Feast on Fan Favorite Delights

Get ready to celebrate the return of fan favorites like smoked turkey legs, tender pulled pork and irresistible barbecue brisket sandwiches.

Shareable Bites and Cosmic Cravings

Looking for something to share with your crew? Dive into our Nova Nachos or grab a basket of crispy chicken tenders, golden fries and a foot-long corn dog from our Cosmic Cluck stand on festival grounds.

Taste Our Out-of-This-World Elote

Craving a snack? Savor our elote, a mouthwatering blend of cotija cheese, zesty lime juice, crema, tajin and fresh cilantro that’s sure to hit the spot.

Fuel Up at Your Favorite Spots

Your favorite food spots—the Food Lab, The Market Grab & Go, and Grounds Control—will be serving up delicious bites all festival long, including The Smuggler: a corned beef, Swiss cheese, and mustard aioli sandwich on marble rye, inspired by John Young’s iconic Gemini 3 ‘hidden’ sandwich.

Get your tickets today and chart a course to the Moon 2 Mars Festival, where your adventures and tastebuds can truly reach the stars!

The post Launch Your Tastebuds into Orbit at the Moon 2 Mars Festival appeared first on Space Center Houston.