4:30 p.m.  Discovery Station (in front of Welcome Center)
5:45 p.m.  Planetarium presentation
6:45 p.m.  Telescope observing at Public Observatory, weather permitting

Maria Banks will discuss the history of the exploration of Mercury and why it is a fascinating planet. She will talk about the MESSENGER spacecraft and provide an overview of new discoveries and what scientists are learning from the spacecraft with a focus on her research.

The Smithsonian’s Stars Lecture Series is made possible by a grant from NASA.

Artist's rendering of the Messenger spacecraft at Mercury.
How to attend

National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC

6th St. and Independence Ave SW. Washington, DC 20560
Planetarium