Press Releases

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum offers new ways of learning as students prepare for the school year. Using the world’s largest aerospace collection, teachers and parents will have access to tools to engage students in multiple subject areas. The museum’s educational program, “STEM in 30,” and the new digital experience, GO FLIGHT, are available for use at home and in the classroom. The museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va., also offers two new programs this fall—Smithsonian TechQuest: Flying Circus and Making STEM Magic.

In commemoration of the 47th anniversary of the first moon landing, the National Air and Space Museum will display Neil Armstrong’s lunar extravehicular gloves and helmet for the first time since 2012. The artifacts recently underwent conservation as part of the successful “Reboot the Suit” Kickstarter campaign conducted in summer 2015. They will be on view for one year, beginning July 20, at the museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va.

The National Air and Space Museum will reopen the “Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall” July 1 in conjunction with the museum’s 40th anniversary.

The “Innovations in Flight” family day and outdoor aviation display, held annually at the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va., will feature tethered hot air balloon flights this year.

New offerings and old favorites will take place all summer long at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., and its Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. Visitors can participate in educational activities at family days at both buildings and enjoy free musical performances in Washington through August.

The National Air and Space Museum will celebrate the 40th anniversary of its flagship building on the National Mall July 1. An evening ceremony and an “All Night at the Museum” event will commemorate the date and officially reopen the Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall. For the first time, the museum will stay open throughout the night with music, tours and activities for all ages