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.
As a public health precaution, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center and the Museum in DC are temporarily closed. See our COVID-19 message.
Bleriot XI
The Blériot Type XI was designed primarily by Raymond Saulnier, but it was a natural evolution from earlier Blériot aircraft, and one to which Louis Blériot himself made substantial contributions. Blériot achieved immortality in the Type XI on July 25, 1909, when he made the first airplane crossing of the English Channel, covering the 40 km (25 mi) between Calais and Dover in 36 minutes, 30 seconds.
