Soar Together @ Air and Space: Human Spaceflight

April 9 and 10, 2021

Through virtual scavenger hunts, webinar discussions, and other activities, participants will learn about the history of human spaceflight and humanity's future traveling throughout space. Enjoy these free activities to see how far we’ve come and how much farther we still have to go in this special Soar Together about living and working in space.

Timed Events

Astronomy Hour
Saturday, April 10, 11 am ET

Have you ever wondered how black holes are formed or where to look in the sky for a planet? How do we know that there are more galaxies than our own? We all have questions about space, and in this live conservation meant for all ages and knowledge levels, experts will answer a few of them!

Learn more and register for this live discussion in advance here. On Saturday, visitors can join the event, hosted on Zoom, here.

Virtual Scavenger Hunts
Friday, April 9, 1 pm ET
Saturday, April 10, 1 pm ET

In these free virtual scavenger hunts, taking place on Friday and Saturday, learners will discover how humans fly to space and explore what it is like to live and work in space.

Participants can prepare to join these free activities by following these simple steps!

  • Download the GooseChase iOS or Android app.
  • Choose to play as a guest or register for a personal account with a username and password of your choice.
  • Join the game by searching the game codes!
    • To join the game on Friday, look for "Making Spaceflight Possible" or search the code 97ZZV7.
    • To join the game on Saturday, look for "Living and Working in Space" or search the code 4XGG95.

Anytime Activities! 

Timeline of Space

Test your knowledge of our universe with this dynamic timeline of space! Discuss with your friends and family what you think humanity's next big adventure into space will be! 

8 Minute Ride: The Space Shuttle at 40

Even getting to space can be a challenge! In this STEM in 30 episode, learn about the eight minute ride that astronauts take to the space station.

People in Space

With these videos, learners will explore how people live and work in space and how astronauts face isolation. 

  • Explore Long-Term Space Flight

  • Learn about the Space Shuttle Toilet!

  • Explore the Human Body in Space!

A Year of Isolation

How do astronauts work through isolation?

"You have to be able to communicate effectively...that is the most important thing you have to do." ~ Astronaut Peggy Whitson

In some ways, your year during the pandemic may have had challenges that are similar to those faced by astronauts in space. Many experts who have lived above the Earth have shared their advice on how to be resilient during hard times of isolation. Read more about their stories then share your experiences below:

Eat Like an Astronaut

Eating in space is different than eating on Earth, and learners will have to be creative if they want to eat like an astronaut. With these recipes and plans, learners of all ages can try meals that some astronauts might have in space!

Family Fun with Our Youngest Explorers

Dress a doll like an astronaut with your young ones in this space activity!

Looking for more space adventures with your young one? Tune in to our newest Flights of Fancy Story Time on Tuesday, April 13. Museum educator Ann Caspari will read the original story Three Friends and Mo Spacewalk, a story about the characters' pretend visit to the International Space Station! After the story, Ann will demonstrate how to make a space snack. This story and activity are perfect for Pre-K kids!

Soar Together @ Air and Space is made possible by the generous support of Northrop Grumman.