Presenters:
Captain Robert L. Crippen, USN (Ret.), astronaut STS-1, STS-7, STS-41C, and STS-41G
N. Wayne Hale, Jr., NASA Flight Director and manager of the Space Shuttle Program
Dr. Sandra H. Magnus, astronaut STS-112, STS-126, ISS Expedition 18, STS-119, and STS-135

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to learn about the evolution of the Space Shuttle Program from those who experienced it first-hand.

Speaking about the early program is Captain Robert Crippen, a software-savvy test pilot who understood the “mind” of the revolutionary new space shuttle, who flew it four times in the first four years, making the first-ever manned orbital test flight. 

Representing the mid-shuttle era is N. Wayne Hale, Jr., an engineer who served in the Mission Control Center as flight director for 40 shuttle missions, overseeing ascent and entry, and eventually becoming the Space Shuttle Program manager.

And Dr. Sandra Magnus will speak on the final phase of the program.  She is a scientist-engineer who flew on the shuttle four times, worked almost five months on the International Space Station, and served on the final shuttle mission crew.

After the lecture, the panelists will sign copies of Space Shuttle Legacy: How We Did It and What We Learned by Roger D. Launius, which will also be available for purchase.  They will not be signing any other items.

The lecture is for members of the Museum's National Air and Space Society and their guests only. There is no charge for Society members to attend, but advance reservations are required. If you are already a member, visit airandspace.si.edu/forms/membertickets to reserve tickets. If you would like to become a member, visit airandspace.si.edu/membership. Membership dues directly support the National Air and Space Museum and begin at just $35.

There will also be a buffet dinner reception before the lecture with the lecturers for Society members at the Mercury Friendship 7 level and higher. For more information about the reception, contact the Membership Office.