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.

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.

The Moon 2 Mars Festival celebrates its fourth year this spring break with Wellby Financial returning as presenting sponsor. Moon 2 Mars will be held Sunday, March 9 through Saturday, March 22, at Space Center Houston.

Last year tens of thousands of people attended Moon 2 Mars which celebrates NASA’s Artemis program that will 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, mouthwatering foods, and days of cosmic exploration for all ages and cutting-edge space technology, including:

• Showcasing Lunar Terrain Vehicles
• International Space Station (ISS) mimicking model 
• AI interactive screens and games
• Science DJ
• A planetarium
• Building your own rocket to launch
• Interactive robotic games and challenges
• Battle Bots (Second weekend only)
• Photo opportunities with family and friends
• And much more! 

Tickets for the Moon 2 Mars Festival, presented by Wellby Financial, are now available at Moon2Mars. Festival access is included with general admission to Space Center Houston. While visiting, guests can also experience the new immersive film, The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, in the newly renovated Space Center Theater, featuring projections across three walls and the floor.

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.

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.

Join us for November’s episode of the Thought Leader Series, presented by UTMB Health, as we explore the technology and strategies driving the next frontier of space exploration in ” Engineering the Future of Space with TransAstra.”

See how TransAstra’s innovations tackle sustainability challenges and enable space-based industries’ growth!

The post VIDEO | Engineering the Future of Space with TransAstra appeared first on Space Center Houston.

By CollectSpace.com
HOUSTON, TX (Dec. 10, 2024) – More than a year after the immersive film debuted in London, “The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks” is set to make its U.S. premiere at Space Center Houston in February 2025. Projected against multiple walls, “The Moonwalkers” envelops audiences in the story of humanity’s journey to the moon, from the historic launches more than 50 years ago to the current efforts to return astronauts to the lunar surface today.

“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 in a statement.

“Moonwalkers” with Christopher Riley, who is known for his work on space-theme documentaries for the BBC, Netflix and PBS. The film features original NASA mission audio alongside Hanks’ voice, accompanied by an original score recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios.

“The Moonwalkers” also features the Artemis II crew, including NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch, as well as Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen. The four are now slated to launch no earlier than April 2026, to become the first people to fly to the moon since the Apollo 17 astronauts in December 1972.

On screen, “The Moonwalkers” draws from the film and image archive created by the 12 people (to date) who have walked on the moon. These include photographs reworked by digital image restorer Andy Saunders for his 2022 book “Apollo Remastered,” which impart new clarity and vibrancy to the Apollo visual record.

“We are thrilled to be the first in the Americas to showcase this epic film,” said William Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Texas. “‘The Moonwalkers’ aligns perfectly with our mission to bring people closer to space.”

“Our guests will be awe-struck,” said Harris, “as they embark on an immersive, unforgettable journey beyond Earth.”

Co-directed by Nick Corrigan and Lysander Ashton of 59 Studio, the film will be screened daily in Space Center Houston’s newly-renovated Space Center Theater, offering guests an ongoing opportunity to experience “The Moonwalkers.” The upgrades to the theater will enhance the viewing experience, recreating the original UK production.

“The Moonwalkers” first opened at Lightroom, near King’s Cross station, in December 2023. First set for a four-month run, “The Moonwalkers” at Lightroom has been extended three times with tickets still available for shows through April 27, 2025. Space Center Houston is the first location outside of Lightroom to host the groundbreaking film.

Showtimes, tickets and other details for “The Moonwalkers'” first U.S. engagement are still to be announced.

Link to Article: http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-121024a-the-moonwalkers-journey-tom-hanks-space-center-houston.html

The post Tom Hanks bringing ‘The Moonwalkers’ to Houston for US premiere appeared first on Space Center Houston.

Celebrate the vibrant culture and rich history of the Latinx community with NASA professionals and pioneers in our October Thought Leader Series, presented by UTMB Health. Join us online as we reflect on this inspiring panel discussion in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month!

The post VIDEO | Space For Art Highlighting Hispanic Heritage in NASA’s Workforce Speakers appeared first on Space Center Houston.

This month’s episode of the Thought Leader Series, presented by UTMB Health, takes us on an inspiring journey through space with “Space for Art.”

Discover how the Space for Art team blends the wonders of space exploration with the transformative power of art to unite the world and foster healing.

Don’t miss this passionate panel discussion as the Space for Art team shares their mission of hope and unity!

The post VIDEO | Space For Art appeared first on Space Center Houston.

HOUSTON, TX (OCTOBER 11, 2024) – This National Hispanic Heritage Month, Space Center Houston welcomed 24 exceptional young women to its Space University Beyond program. Hailing from Colombia (11 participants), Ecuador (11 participants), and Peru (2 participants), these students embarked on an engaging educational experience with hands-on activities that simulated planning their own space mission, conducted entirely in Spanish, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the language and cultural aspects of space exploration.

Throughout the Space U Beyond program, students work together to develop real-world solutions to the challenges of space exploration, fostering creativity and innovation. The students collaborate in groups diving into the dynamic subjects of rocketry, robotics, coding, heat shields, and sustainable living in hazardous environments connecting with current NASA missions such as Artemis.

This initiative was made possible through the partnership of the SHE-IS Foundation, their generous sponsors, and the support of NASA’s Office of Hispanic Employee Resource Group (HERG) to engage our Latin American communities.

At Space Center Houston, we emphasize that space belongs to everyone, and having greater accessibility to the wonders of space brings people and space closer together.

“During Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrated our 8th Space University Beyond cohort. Space Center Houston is committed to providing more opportunities like this to Latin America students, having hosted participants from Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, The Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and Panama,” said William T. Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston. “To date, we have served 228 students on-site and 1,124 virtually through our Space U Beyond program. We look forward to welcoming 68 more students in the coming months, all eager to explore the wonders of space exploration.”

Media Contacts

Rashena Franklin
Manager of Communications
rfranklin@spacecenter.org

Illiana Luna
Public Relations Specialist
iluna@spacecenter.org 

The post Continuing National Hispanic Heritage Month 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.