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.

“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.

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we invite you to explore our Spanish-language programs that fuel STEM learning for our Latinx communities in Houston and beyond!  

Space U Beyond 

Live Presentations 

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! // ¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana! 

The post Making Space for All Exploradores!  appeared first on Space Center Houston.

The trainer is one of Space Center Houston’s first artifacts. For over 32 years, “millions of guests have walked through Skylab and were completely unaware that there were so many other artifacts [inside]…”. The team discovered cassettes, a surgery kit, medical logs and sleep restraints. 

To celebrate this discovery, we hosted an exclusive event in partnership with the University of Texas Medical Branch and guest speakers Dr. Joe Kerwin, retired NASA astronaut and Flight Surgeon, and Dr. Ronak Shah, Director of Aerospace Medicine at UTMB Health.  

Explore our gallery and get an up-close look at the newly discovered artifacts! 

Step back in time and listen to the music that fueled the Skylab crews during their training.  

Discover more about America’s first Space Station when you visit our Skylab 1-G Trainer on your next visit!

The post Skylab’s Hidden Treasures appeared first on Space Center Houston.

For ninety-one years, Engle touched many lives, shaping the future for generations to come. His journey from a small Kansas town to the vast expanse of space is a testament to his remarkable skill, dedication, and pioneering spirit.

At the age of 32, he made history as the youngest pilot to ever qualify as an astronaut and by 1966, the X-15 pilot was officially selected as a NASA astronaut candidate. His passion for exploration launched an incredible space career, from supporting the historic Apollo program to piloting space shuttle Columbia.

Engle’s commitment to exploration serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the boundless potential of human ingenuity and the spirit of adventure. As we honor him, we celebrate a true American hero whose contributions to aviation and space exploration continue to inspire generations to reach for the stars.

The post Honoring the life of Joe Engle: A Legendary NASA Pilot and Astronaut appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Become a member with code MBRECLIPSE to get 10% off your membership today and enjoy FREE access to this once-in-a-lifetime celestial event.   

Celebrate the total solar eclipse with complimentary eclipse glasses and special giveaways. Plus, members will experience the celestial phenomenon with an unobstructed view, participate in interactive activities, and watch live artwork by local Houston artist, GONZO247.

Year-long perks for members:

• Free general admission & express entry 
• Free parking on every visit 
• Exclusive invites to members-only events 
• Discounts on tours, gift shop merchandise & more  
• Priority registration for STEM-Education programs 
• Member Morning events with early entry

Don’t miss out, become a member today!

The post The Future of Space Exploration is Bright. Got Shades? Become a Space Center Houston Member Today appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Experience this cosmic phenomenon with other eclipse chasers and make Space Center Houston your eclipse viewing destination! Learn about the science of solar eclipses with three days of interactive programming at our Total Solar Eclipse Celebration—all included in general admission from Saturday, April 6 through Monday, April 8.  

If you’ve already marked your calendar, here are some helpful tips if you’re planning on watching the eclipse:

1. Prioritize eye safety during the eclipse 

When watching the partial phases of the solar eclipse directly with your eyes, which happens before and after totality, you must always look through safe solar viewing glasses (“eclipse glasses”) or a safe handheld solar viewer. Eclipse glasses are NOT regular sunglasses; regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the Sun. Safe solar viewers are thousands of times darker and ought to comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard.  

Always inspect your eclipse glasses or handheld viewer before use; if torn, scratched, or otherwise damaged, discard the device. Always supervise children using solar viewers. 

Do NOT look at the Sun through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device while wearing eclipse glasses or using a handheld solar viewer — the concentrated solar rays will burn through the filter and cause serious eye injury (Source: NASA).  

All visitors to Space Center Houston on Monday, April 8 will receive a complimentary pair of eclipse glasses to enjoy the experience! 

2. Know the path of totality

Though the path of totality for the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse cuts through the heart of the Lone Star State, Houston narrowly skirts the full path of totality. This means that the Houston area will not experience totality. However, Space Center Houston will still have an extraordinary view of the event! Check out our map to trace the path of totality while making your travel plans.

3. Prep for a Texas road trip (and Texas traffic)

Did you know it takes around 11 hours to drive across the state of Texas? For those out-of-state visitors coming to see this cosmic phenomenon, the sheer distance between destinations and cities in Texas should be considered in your itinerary. And if you’re flying in to any of the state’s major cities, expect to wait in traffic—private vehicles are the most popular mode of transportation. Variables like highway construction, weather and rush hour can exacerbate traffic, so make sure to give yourself and your crew plenty of time to make it to your destination. With snacks and our eclipse-themed playlist, your drive will go by much faster!

Space Center Houston’s Total Solar Eclipse Celebration is April 6 through April 8 and access is included in your admission to the center. Members get in free and on April 8, they can enjoy a members-only eclipse viewing area! Not a member? Learn more and create a year of out-of-this-world memories.

The post Three Tips to Prepare for the Total Solar Eclipse appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Browse the lookbook ↓

From the Omega Speedmaster becoming the first watch worn on the Moon in 1969, to Moon-inspired garments designed by fashion house Off White displayed on the runway at New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2023, space and fashion have frequently taken inspiration from one another.  

A dynamic commercial space industry and NASA’s imagination-revving Artemis program have pushed the interest in space exploration—and a desire to wear space-inspired garments—to new heights in 2023. Earlier this year, it was announced that the Artemis II mission will see four astronauts – Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen – venture around the Moon on a 10-day flight. This will be the first crewed mission on a path to establishing a long-term presence on the Moon and will test NASA’s foundational human deep space exploration capabilities, the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft for the first time with astronauts.  

And what will Artemis astronauts be wearing when they step on the Moon again for the third mission, slated for 2025? The Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) spacesuit, with design partially informed through a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Axiom Space and iconic luxury fashion brand Prada. 

On-planet space lovers need not wait for these pieces, though—outfit yourself in space- and Houston-inspired streetwear from Space Center Houston’s gift shop. 

Prep for cool Texas winters with this NASA-branded crewneck sweatshirt in camo green. It features “Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX” embroidered on the chest above the iconic NASA “meatball” logo. It is styled with a fishing vest and a bright orange tie-back top underneath to add a pop of color. 

“I believe space gives us a perspective of infinite possibilities which allows me to feel free and liberated from societal constructs that affect the way I dress and present myself to the world,” said model Erika Natalie (Instagram: @iamenrg), who is featured in the photo above. 

Lean into fall neutrals while showing your love for the first space agency to land a human on the moon. Wear this cream-colored hoodie featuring a large satin applique of the throwback NASA “worm” logo and “National Aeronautics and Space Administration.” Pair it with a utility-forward messenger bag featuring embroidered patches of all of NASA’s logos and nods to NASA’s storied history with the United States military.

Inject playful pastels into your look while staying warm—and salute a piece of U.S. military history that was foundational to advancing equity for women in the skies. Or opt for a bright pink bomber jacket that recognizes the Women’s Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) division (right) with embroidered patches and designs. WASP operated during the height of World War II from 1942 to 1944 to answer the U.S.’s need for pilots ferrying aircraft to the front lines. The over 1,000 graduate female pilots of this division paved the way for women in the U.S. Air Force, the military wing that provided three of the first astronauts that comprised the Mercury Seven.  

Ready to infuse your wardrobe with space history? Shop in-person at Space Center Houston or online at spacecenter.org/shop then browse our look book below to style your new threads!

Special Thanks 

Space Center Houston would like to extend our gratitude and acknowledge the generous support of Intuitive Machines for granting us permission to capture photographs at the company’s Flame Range located at the Houston Spaceport. The Flame Range, a remarkable facility designed and built by Burns & McDonnell, has provided us with an exceptional backdrop for capturing stunning images highlighting innovative advancements in aerospace exploration.

Lookbook | Fall 2023

Photographer: Aaron Rodriguez
Stylist: Adrianna Benavides

The post Infuse Star Power Into Your Fall with Space-Inspired Fashion appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Illiana Luna

Public Relations Specialist

“Many firsts in my career have happened at Space Center Houston because of the opportunities I have found myself in. From crafting my first CEO quote to writing a script for Apollo Flight Director Gene Kranz – I am forever grateful to have contributed to one of the nation’s leading science and space exploration learning centers, and the many walks of lives that enter through it.

I hope to inspire and encourage the Hispanic community to always reach for the Moon and stars because your contributions matter. Spread your magic and si tu puedes!”

Aaron Rodriguez

Visual Information Specialist

“Representation is important and I am proud to be a Latino in this industry and bring my unique perspective to it. Not only do I hope to inspire others in the Hispanic community to become involved in STEM and space exploration, but I hope to set a good example for my daughters to become involved. Through my talents, I hope to show them that there are other people like them in this industry and that anything is possible if you have passion and work hard towards your goals.”

Erica Martinez

Event Sales Coordinator

“In my role as the Event Sales Coordinator at Space Center Houston, I’ve had the privilege of being the initial point of contact for assisting our clients in hosting events here. As a Hispanic woman, building a successful career that gives me the opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders such as Indeed, Chevron, Anheuser Busch, and many others is an honor. The most rewarding part of my position is playing a role in selling, organizing, and executing events with my team. I hope to encourage the Hispanic Community to purse their dreams, and anything is possible.”

Óscar Neira

Spanish Language Programs Specialist

“The work I’m doing at Space Center Houston is a source of immense pride and passion for me. Being an educator, I am filled with a sense of wonder and excitement as I contribute to making Space Center Houston more accessible through the Spanish programs and participants. My favorite part of my role is that I’m giving back what my country did for me. It gave me what is necessary to be part of one of the most recognized science centers and create new opportunities for Hispanic communities. I incorporate my cultural background into educational programs, projects, research, and exhibitions, providing a more diverse and inclusive view of science.”

En español
“El trabajo que estoy haciendo en el Centro Espacial de Houston es una fuente de inmenso orgullo y pasión para mí. Como educador, me siento con gran sensación de asombro y entusiasmo al contribuir que el Centro Espacial sea más accesible a través de los programas en español y sus participantes. Mi parte favorita de mi rol es que estoy devolviendo lo que mi país hizo por mí. Me dio lo necesario para ser parte de uno de los centros de ciencias más reconocidos y crear nuevas oportunidades para las comunidades hispanas. Incorporo mi formación cultural en programas educativos, proyectos, investigaciones y exposiciones, brindando una visión más diversa e inclusiva de la ciencia.”

Ann Hernandez

Director of Leadership Programs and Inclusion

“As the Director of Leadership Programs and Inclusion, I get to help people of all ages feel connected to space and think of how to apply the lessons from NASA and space companies to their daily lives, professionally and personally. As a learning organization, we continuously discover more about our global community and look for ways to increase accessibility for Latinx/o/a peoples. As a mixed-race Latina, I don’t always feel represented in every environment, but I am proud to work in an organization and public learning center that prioritizes inclusion, allowing each person to see themselves in the space world.”

The post Hispanic Heritage Month | Crew Spotlight appeared first on Space Center Houston.