Visit us in Washington, DC and Chantilly, VA to explore hundreds of the world’s most significant objects in aviation and space history.
Learn how aviation and spaceflight transformed the world.
The lunar module represents one of humanity’s greatest achievements: landing people on another heavenly body.
Don’t miss our fast-paced webcasts designed to engage students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math in 30 minutes.
Apollo 11 was a global event. What did that historic mission mean to you? Share your story and read what others have to say.
Our scientists are involved in current research focused on the Martian climate and geology. Find out what we’re discovering.
Recognize your favorite air or space enthusiast. Add his or her name to the Museum’s Wall of Honor.
Due to the government shutdown, all Smithsonian museums are closed. For further updates on our operating status follow us on social media.
We examine a wide variety of subjects at the Museum — from the Space Shuttle to the Wright brothers. We even conduct our own groundbreaking research in the area of planetary science. Here are just a few of the more popular topics you can explore on our website. Dig in!
Featured Topic
The Apollo Program was designed to land humans on the Moon and bring them safely back to Earth, but America's goals went beyond that.
The Space Shuttle
For 30 years the space shuttle ferried astronauts back and forth from the International Space Station.
Mars
Our scientists are actively researching the potential habitability of Mars; past and present environments.
Astronomy
We bring astronomy to you through webcasts from our Public Observatory and more.
The Wright Brothers
In 1903, the Wright Flyer became the first powered, heavier-than-air machine to achieve controlled, sustained flight with a pilot aboard.
Civil War Ballooning
History was made on the National Mall in 1861 when Thaddeus Lowe demonstrated the potential of balloons for aerial reconnaissance.
Women in Air and Space History
Women are represented in every gallery in the Museum. Learn about women's contributions to aviation and space history.
Look Inside!
Have a look inside our artifacts with these panoramic views of some of our most significant cockpits.
African Americans in Air and Space History
African Americans were routinely denied access to training as pilots and mechanics in the early days of aviation. A small number of determined black air enthusiasts challenged racial discrimination.
Conservation
Our conservators play a vital role in caring for our more than 60,000 objects. Learn about the kinds of work our conservators do behind-the-scenes.
World War II Aviation
Explore the Museums expansive collection of World War II aircraft, hear from our experts and veterans, and uncover new stories.
Human Spaceflight
Explore the objects that have made human spaceflight possible and hear from astronauts and our experts about what it's like to live and work in space.
Rockets and Missiles
Within a couple of decades, rockets and missiles began to alter the course of the twentieth-century. Explore our stellar collection and hear from our experts.
