In 2019, the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum helped lead a national celebration of the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 Moon landing, which occurred on July 20, 1969. The celebrations took many forms, from educational programs to a virtual fitness challenge, and even a show that combined a full-motion projection on the Washington Monument to recreate the launch of Apollo 11 and tell the story of the first Moon landing. 

Take a look back at how we celebrated this monumental anniversary. With our renowned collection and expertise, we sparked a national conversation about the past, present, and future of innovation and exploration beyond the 50th anniversary of the first Moon landing.

Projection of Saturn 5 rocket on Washington Memorial
July 16-20, 2019

Go for the Moon

Buzz Aldrin Sets Up the PSEP
July 18-20, 2019

Apollo 50 Festival

Nationals Park
July 5-22, 2019

Apollo at the Park

Mobile Quarantine Facility (Apollo 11) at the Udvar-Hazy Center
July 15-19, 2019

Apollo 50 at the Udvar-Hazy Center

Race to the Moon
June 1-July 20, 2019

Race to the Moon: A Virtual Race Powered By Strava

Command module rendering for project egress
July 18, 2019

"Project Egress" Build with Adam Savage

Apollo 11 astronauts on boat
July 18, 2019

One Giant Leap: Space Diplomacy Past, Present, Future

Photo of the Earth rising in the sky with the Moon in the foreground
December 11, 2018

The Spirit of Apollo

 Support for Apollo 50 programming is generously provided by

With additional support from