Events and Public Programs
Participate in free events and activities at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center!
Visitor Center Experiences
To enhance your self-guided experience, our staff and volunteers will occasionally conduct special “pop-up” programs and activities for guests of all ages to explore science topics and NASA missions. All experiences are free of charge.
Gallery Programs
Look for an informal educator and our curiosity cart in the main exhibit hall to complete a challenge or engage in fun, hands-on science demonstrations.
Science On a Sphere Solar System Tour
Take a self-guided tour of our local solar system and explore past, present, and future NASA planetary missions.
Special Events and Programs
Join us in one of our upcoming events or programs to explore a special STEM topic. All programs are free; those requiring advanced registration will be noted in the event description.
June
Space Fossils
Saturday, June 27, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join us for a thrilling journey into planetary science as we celebrate World Asteroid Day! Discover the secrets of our cosmic neighborhood, explore how space rocks shape not only our world, but our local geography, and learn what it takes to protect Earth from cosmic impacts.
With hands-on exploration, guests can simulate asteroid impacts, experiment with crater-making, and explore the physics of space rocks through interactive activities.
Special guest presentation at 11 a.m.
We are honored to welcome USGS research geologist David Powars, of the Chesapeake Bay Impact Crater — the largest known impact crater in the United States. David will share the fascinating detective story of how he uncovered this massive, 35-million-year-old cosmic collision buried right beneath our region.
Perfect for space enthusiasts, families, and curious minds of all ages!
July
Celebrating NASA Wallops History
Friday, July 3, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
As America celebrates its 250th birthday, we gather to honor the history of NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility. Established in 1945—just as the nation was emerging from WWII and looking toward the stars—Wallops Island stands as one of the oldest rocket launch sites in the world.
This special presentation traces the journey of a quiet Virginia barrier island as it transformed into a bustling hub of global aviation and aerospace achievement. From the early days of testing experimental NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics) models to supporting the legendary Project Mercury and evolving into a modern launch range, Wallops has spent over eight decades contributing to American history.
Join us as we explore how the resilience, grit, and innovation of NASA Wallops helped propel the United States into the space age, proving that America’s journey of exploration didn’t stop at our coastlines—it was just getting started.
Illuminating the Dark Universe: Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope
Saturday, July 25, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
A look at the science and story behind the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, NASA’s next major observatory set to reshape our understanding of the universe. The exhibit highlights Roman’s powerful wide‑field infrared vision, its mission to investigate dark energy, and its ability to capture sweeping cosmic panoramas hundreds of times larger than those from previous space telescopes. Visitors can explore interactive displays that explain how the telescope will map galaxies, study exoplanets, and continue the legacy of Dr. Nancy Grace Roman, NASA’s “Mother of Hubble.” Designed for learners of all ages, the experience blends hands‑on discovery with inspiring visuals, offering a close look at the technology and ambition driving one of NASA’s most exciting upcoming missions.
