Check out a real Mars meteorite, view the surface of the Red Planet in 3-D and learn about missions to Mars at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum on Friday, July 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the museum's fourth annual
Mars Day.
Commemorating the landing of
Viking 1 on Mars (July 20, 1976), this special day will celebrate past and future exploration of the Red Planet. Visitors are invited to view a Sojourner Rover demonstration, participate in "The Red Planet Quiz Show," enjoy a free lecture in the Einstein Planetarium (9:45 a.m.), interact with robot explorers and talk to museum scientists. "Everyone seems to be fascinated by the Red Planet," said Priscilla Strain, program manager in the museum's Center for Earth and Planetary Studies. "Mars Day gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about Mars exploration in a fun, interactive environment."
In addition to recognizing the 25th anniversary of the Viking 1 landing, this year's event is part of a yearlong series celebrating the 25th anniversary of the museum's opening. Mars Day is sponsored by a grant from the American Honda Motor Company.
For further information and schedule of events, visit www.nasm.si.edu/marsday.