NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Visitor Center
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

America's plans for returning to the moon will take another step toward reality in April 2009 when NASA launches Ares I-X, the first test rocket of the Constellation program. Join us this Saturday for Countdown to the Future, a free Third Saturday event at the Visitor Center.

As we begin the countdown to the Ares I launch, you'll find out more about the Constellation program and NASA Glenn Research Center's role in returning humans to the moon. See models and renderings of the Ares rockets and Orion crew exploration vehicle, and attend one or more presentations.

Image right: Artist's rendering of the Ares I rocket on the launch pad at the Kennedy Space Flight Center in Fla. Credit: NASA

This family event includes kids' crafts, "Picture Yourself in Space" digital photographs, a lunar and meteorite sample display table and plenty of handouts.

Make your reservations today by calling (216) 433-9653.

Presentations:

10 a.m. - The Ares Launch Vehicle: Access to the Future

Scott Graham, chief of Glenn's Launch Systems Project Office, describes the Ares Launch Vehicle. Hear how Glenn is building flight hardware for the April 2009 Ares I-X test flight.

Noon - The Orion Spacecraft: Status Report

James Free, Orion Service Module manager, and Elias Naffah, acting chief of Glenn's Orion Project Office, talk about the development of Orion. You'll find out how Glenn is preparing its facilities to test the Orion spacecraft before it carries astronauts to the International Space Station and the moon.

2 p.m. - The Lunar Surface Access Module: At Home on the Moon

Glenn will play a pivotal role in the development and testing of the Lunar Surface Access Module. Join Stephen Simons, manager of Glenn's Lunar Lander Systems Office, as he explains how NASA plans to explore the moon with this unique vehicle.

Please note the following important guidelines:

• Advanced registration guarantees admission to the Visitor Center. Call (216) 433-9653.
• All adult visitors are required to present government-issued photo identification.
• Access to the NASA Glenn Visitor Center is limited to U.S. citizens.

More Information:
+ Print a Flyer (pdf)
+ Third Saturday Event Schedule