“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.

Moon 2 Mars Photo Op

The iconic Moon 2 Mars display that you know, and love has a bold new look! We’ve replaced our single-use balloon display with a reusable inflatable. We’ll be able to use this sustainable display year-round to support the festival and our community engagement efforts for many years to come!

Kinetic Dance Floor

Bust out some electrifying moves on our Kinetic Dance Floor! The more you move, the more energy you create. The energy generated is instantly converted into electricity (renewable energy) that activates the floor’s LED lights.

SpaceX Falcon 9 Booster

While you’re exploring the festival grounds get an up-close look at one of our permanent exhibits, the Space X Falcon 9 Booster. This reusable two-stage rocket launched in June and December of 2017 as part of two NASA missions. Today, this rocket is a symbol of the future of space travel, reusable technology!

Celebrate Spring Break, Space City style and add these three cosmic experiences to your #Moon2MarsFestival visit!

The post Sustainability takes the main stage at Moon 2 Mars appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Beloved NASA Astronaut Thomas K. “TK” Mattingly II passed away on October 31, 2023, at the age of 87. Mattingly began his career as a United States Navy Pilot before entering the astronaut class of 1966.

At the height of his career, just three days before the Apollo 13 mission launch, Mattingly was exposed to rubella (human viral disease). As a precaution, he was unable to serve as the mission’s command module pilot and stayed on the ground.

After launch, an oxygen tank explosion rocked the spacecraft, endangering the crew on the way to the Moon. Mattingly, who was later confirmed not sick, went to Mission Control and strategized with the ground crew to develop a procedure to conserve power and successfully return the crew home. Guests can view the modified Lithium Hydroxide Canister prototype that help save all three astronauts in our Starship Gallery.

Space Center Houston honors the life and legacy of Thomas K. Mattingly II. His contributions have played a pivotal role in the success of lunar exploration and the human spaceflight program. Now, as we return to the Moon, we look to legends like him to inspire the next generation of explorers. With human ingenuity, resilience and determination, anything is possible!   

Photos courtesy of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).  

The post A Space Hero | Tribute to Apollo astronaut Thomas K. Mattingly II appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Bring your crew to enjoy some brews and boos at Galaxy Frights, presented by Reliant Energy! Our friends at Wolfgang Puck Catering have crafted seasonal bites to purchase on your next visit to The Food Lab at Space Center Houston.

Say “gutentag” to our Oktoberfest menu! These limited-time offerings give you a bite of Germany, right here in Space City.

Choose your treat! Grab a traditional pretzel with beer cheese sauce or mix it up with a pretzel bun loaded with pork schnitzel and braised cabbage. Looking for something in between? Opt for our smoked sausage with braised cabbage.

Enjoy locally brewed Oktoberfest beers from Houston breweries Eureka Heights Brewery, 8th Wonder Brewery and Saint Arnold Brewing Company, all part of Silver Eagle Distributors. Crisp and easy to drink, you’ll want to pair them with one of our yummy pretzels.

Not a German classic, but a fan favorite: Our “dirt and worms” and “black forest” cups add some spooky flavor to the menu. Chocolate pudding layered with Oreo crumbles and topped with gummy worms. Sour and sweet!

Ready to taste these savory treats? Purchase your general admission ticket to Galaxy Frights, flying Oct. 21-22 and Oct. 28-29. And don’t forget–costumes are encouraged during Galaxy Frights!

The post Enjoy the Tastes of Oktoberfest at Galaxy Frights appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Sharon McDougle

Girl’s STEM Pathway program Subject Matter Expert (SME)

“Even though I no longer work with the space program I am still very much involved in spreading the word about all things space, particularly my past career working with the orange launch/entry space suit as well as other opportunities to work with the space program. I even wrote a children’s book titled “Suit Up for Launch With Shay!” which educates kids of all ages [that they] can learn about the space suit in a fun and interesting way and hopefully pique their interest to one day work in the aerospace industry.”

Lauren Holley

Audience and Evaluation Manager

“As our Audience and Evaluation Manager, I investigate ways to best connect with our audiences and I showcase our impact. My work helps our museum understand what our visitors and communities are curious about, what they know or discover during their time with us, and how they see space present in their everyday lives.”

Rachel Schwartzman

Accessibility and Inclusion Specialist

“As a woman with a disability working in museums like Space Center Houston, I get to witness and show that women are a force in this industry and STEM. I work to make sure all people have access to space education and feel a sense of belonging when they are here. We want visitors to see themselves in the work that is being done here and at NASA by impressive women innovators. I am proud to be a part of bringing people and space closer together.”

Mary Shafer

Chief Operating Officer

“Since I was a little girl, I’ve been inspired by museums and nature and have loved creating experiences for people that help them feel more connected to each other and the wonder of our universe. I was also very fortunate to have had several educators and scientists in my life that made me feel welcome and encouraged me to explore more (including my dad!). I feel so honored that I get to combine these passions into my role where every day I get to bring people and space closer together every day!”

Carmina Mortillaro

Collections Specialist

“I love telling space stories and watching the spark in people’s expression when they make a connection with something they already know and become more curious about space and how it benefits life on Earth.”

The post Saluting Crew Members for Women’s History Month appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Our Moon 2 Mars Festival, presented by Wellby Financial, kicks off its second year Saturday, March 11 and runs through Sunday, March 19, with live music performances March 16 through March 19. The festival celebrates NASA’s Artemis program that will land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon, using innovative technologies to build a permanent presence on the lunar surface.

With so much to see and do, we’ve created this handy guide to highlight the festival’s must-see activations—from the Moon to Mars and beyond!

1. Jam out each day beginning March 16 with DJ Blue Heron Yacht Club and First Cavalry Division Band. Enjoy our star-studded lineup March 16-19, including headliner and Grammy Award winner Rick Springfield on Saturday, March 18.

2. Train like an astronaut in our THINK Neurology Future Astronaut Training Grounds, channel your inner explorer as you scale our colossal Martian rock wall and swing a club on the Moon with our lunar golf simulation.

3. Learn all about space in our live presentations about Artemis, the James Webb Space Telescope and the International Space Station.

4. Grab a stellar selfie in front of our new welcome sign or our classic Moon 2 Mars balloon display.

5. Go behind-the-scenes at NASA Johnson Space Center on a Tram Tour and get an up-close look at human space exploration. These will be in high demand–don’t forget to book your spot in advance!

6. Learn about humanity’s next giant leap by exploring The Artemis Exhibit, highlighting the program which will return humans to the Moon for the first time in 50 years.

7. Hear from a NASA Astronaut as they share their mission memories, training experiences, and more with our unique Astronaut Experiences.

8. Put your skills to the test! Collect resources on our lunar landscape using VEX IQ robotic rovers at our Robotics Challenge and pilot a drone in our exciting Drone Zone!

Access to the festival is included in general admission. Find the festival map, a daily schedule, accessibility resources and more at spacecenter.org/moon2marsfestival.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival appeared first on Space Center Houston.