Illiana Luna, Author at Space Center Houston https://spacecenter.org/author/iluna/ Gateway to NASA Johnson Space Center Tue, 04 Nov 2025 19:01:42 +0000 en hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://spacecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/SCHFavicon1-150x150.png Illiana Luna, Author at Space Center Houston https://spacecenter.org/author/iluna/ 32 32 Space Center Houston and Wellby Financial Present Houston’s Brightest Holiday Light Show, Galaxy Lights https://spacecenter.org/space-center-houston-and-wellby-financial-present-houstons-brightest-holiday-light-show-galaxy-lights/ Tue, 04 Nov 2025 19:01:41 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=86606 November 15, 2025, through January 4, 2026, from 6 – 10 p.m. Thinking of taking a trip amongst the stars? Look no further, Space City! Houston’s brightest holiday light show, […]

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November 15, 2025, through January 4, 2026, from 6 – 10 p.m.

Thinking of taking a trip amongst the stars? Look no further, Space City! Houston’s brightest holiday light show, Galaxy Lights, presented by Wellby Financial, the Official Credit Union of Space Center Houston, invites you on a journey to space this holiday season.

Now in its seventh year, this beloved holiday tradition returns November 15, 2025, through January 4, 2026, at Space Center Houston, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center.  

Experience the cosmic magic as the space exploration and science learning center transforms into a breathtaking galaxy wonderland. Beneath the iconic 747 Boeing aircraft at Independence Plaza, guests can delight in radiant LED light swings, stroll around the crystal fireworks show choreographed to an epic playlist, snap a photo opportunity at the towering 40 feet high shooting star light display stretching 100 feet wide, and catch the signature feature film, Holidays in Space celebrating the season through a cosmic lens.

Your epic journey also includes:

  • S’mores and hot cocoa available for purchase 🍫
  • Fire pit stations to warm up under the stars 🔥
  • Instagram-worthy photo opportunities throughout the experience 📸
  • A sip of the season with Starbase’s featured brew, “Go for Launch” 🍻


NOTE: Closed on the Following Dates

Monday, Nov. 17 – Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025   
Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025  
Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025  
Wednesday, Dec. 24 – Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025

To purchase Galaxy Lights tickets, please visit Galaxy Lights, presented by Wellby Financial.       

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Cactus Jack Foundation and Space Center Houston Partner to Engage and Empower Youth through STEM https://spacecenter.org/cactus-jack-foundation-and-space-center-houston-partner-to-engage-and-empower-youth-through-stem/ Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:09:31 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=86295 HOUSTON, TX (October 11, 2025) – Cactus Jack Foundation and Space Center Houston, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, launched a unique STEM program today. The eight-week-long initiative aims to […]

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HOUSTON, TX (October 11, 2025) – Cactus Jack Foundation and Space Center Houston, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, launched a unique STEM program today.

The eight-week-long initiative aims to heighten engagement of HISD students with a design and engineering-focused curriculum. The nonprofit organizations will bring educational resources to the students that unlock new principles in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) problem solving, while teaching essential skills for future careers in engineering, design, and space exploration.

“We are proud to be in partnership with the Cactus Jack Foundation as we prepare the next generation of creators and problem solvers from the heart of Houston,” said William T. Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston. “We believe that space is for everyone, and we want to bring them closer to the wonders and curiosity we find ourselves faced with every day.”

Students will be immersed in tackling today’s real-world challenges of space habitation, such as water scarcity, power generation, and habitat design—developing innovative, practical solutions to these critical issues.

“Partnering with Space Center Houston is truly a lifelong dream for Travis and the Webster family,” said Jordan Webster, director of Education Partnerships for the Cactus Jack Foundation. “We have always been inspired by NASA. Through the Cactus Jack Foundation, our mission is to open new educational pathways for youth so they can accelerate in STEM and see themselves as the innovators and explorers of tomorrow. This is just the beginning of what’s to come with Space Center Houston, and we couldn’t be more excited to build a future where our kids can dream bigger than ever before.”

Through a mix of virtual and in-person workshops, the STEM program will host hands-on build events on three Saturdays at TXRX Labs – a Houston nonprofit makerspace, committed to equipping youth with valuable technical skills.

Here, students will collaborate with NASA engineers to form design teams and take part in the engineering process, from brainstorming and prototyping to testing and refining their solutions.   

Throughout the course of the program, students will learn key innovation and engineering skills, including design sketching, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) modeling, systems thinking, and fabrication. Student teams will also develop low, medium and high-fidelity prototypes using advanced digital design software, 3D printing technology, and state-of-the-art fabrication equipment at TXRX Labs.

“Opportunities like this are being offered to help enrich our students’ lives and inspire them to pursue careers in fields where they can not only thrive but also bring back solutions to their communities,” said Travis Scott, founder of the Cactus Jack Foundation.

The program will conclude with a final showcase on December 19 where students will present their engineered designs to industry professionals alongside Scott at Space Center Houston.

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ABOUT CACTUS JACK FOUNDATION

Founded by music artist Travis Scott, the Cactus Jack Foundation’s mission is to empower and enrich the lives of youth by providing access to education and creative resources to ensure long-term success.

ABOUT CACT.US DESIGN CENTER

The CACT.US DESIGN CENTER at TXRX Labs is a youth focused design school founded by Cactus Jack Foundation. It opened on November 3rd, 2021 with hundreds of middle and high school students enrolled who are passionate about design and engineering.  Bespoke programs include Cact.Us Sneaker Lab powered by Nike & Design Ethos 101 Education powered by Fashion Scholarship Fund. The fully operational 60,000 square foot state of the art facility is located in Houston, Texas.

ABOUT SPACE CENTER HOUSTON

Space Center Houston’s shared purpose is to bring people and space closer together. Over 1.3 million visitors and more than 250,000 students and educators visit each year to connect with the significance of space exploration to pursue a path in STEM or follow along as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to make new discoveries. Space Center Houston is owned by the Manned Space Flight Education Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and generates an annual $118M economic impact to the Greater Houston area. Space Center Houston is a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, and a Certified Autism Center. Learn more at spacecenter.org.

Media Contacts

Rashena Franklin, Manager of Communications
rfranklin@spacecenter.org

IIlliana Luna, Public Relations Specialist
iluna@spacecenter.org

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Now Boarding Your Early Access Tour at Space Center Houston  https://spacecenter.org/now-boarding-your-early-access-tour-at-space-center-houston/ Fri, 05 Sep 2025 16:35:11 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=85382 Space Center Houston’s newly announced Early Access Tour gives you the exclusive early bird entry into some of the most iconic exhibits with a VIP Tour Guide.  This 60-minute guided […]

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Space Center Houston’s newly announced Early Access Tour gives you the exclusive early bird entry into some of the most iconic exhibits with a VIP Tour Guide. 

This 60-minute guided tour is included with general admission and is open to all ages. It offers a unique opportunity to explore major attractions and NASA Johnson Space Center before the rush — including Starship Gallery, Lunar Vault, Skylab Trainer, Artemis, and a NASA Tram Tour to the Astronaut Training Facility. 

Stargazing Sites on Your Early Access Tour: 

  • 🚀 Starship Gallery: A journey through flown historical spacecrafts, including Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo artifacts. 
  • 🌕 Lunar Vault: This is the largest display of Moon rocks on public display in the world. And don’t forget to touch a piece of the Moon while you’re here! 😉   
  • 🛰 Skylab’s High-Fidelity Trainer: Step into the life-size trainer used for America’s first space station missions and imagine life aboard Skylab. 
  • 🧑🏼‍🚀 Artemis: Journey back to the Moon through Artemis! Explore everything involved in returning to the lunar surface with NASA’s Artemis campaign. 
  • 🚉 NASA Tram Tour Astronaut Training Facility: To conclude, guests will board the first tram tour of the day to the Astronaut Training Facility. Walk an elevated “catwalk” where NASA astronauts train for current missions and where scientists and engineers develop the next generation of space exploration vehicles.  

The Early Access Tours are available one hour before Space Center Houston opens, requiring an advance ticket purchase. The tours are limited to 20 guests, and it is recommended to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled tour.  

Visitors’ Note: When reserving an Early Access Tour, you may notice an option to book the NASA Tram Tour with Historic Mission Control Room. Please note that this is a separate upgrade from the standard Early Access Tour (which includes the Astronaut Training Facility). This upgraded tour has a VIP Tour Guide and lasts approximately 60 minutes. The tour schedule is subject to change.  

To learn more information about the Early Access Tour, visit Reserve your Early Access Tour.  

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Congratulations, Amy Medina Jorge: Space Center Houston SEEC Ambassador Embarks on Blue Origin’s NS-32 Flight https://spacecenter.org/blue-origin-amy-medina-jorge/ Sat, 31 May 2025 18:00:00 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=83830 Space Center Houston is beyond proud to congratulate Aymette “Amy” Medina Jorge, a five-year Space Center Houston SEEC ambassador on her Blue Origin flight.

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Space Center Houston is beyond proud to congratulate Aymette “Amy” Medina Jorge, a five-year Space Center Houston SEEC ambassador on her Blue Origin flight.

Medina, a longstanding educator and returning participant to the center’s annual Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC), embarked on Blue Origin’s New Shepard NS-32 flight alongside her five crewmates earlier today, May 31.

Born in Puerto Rico, Medina Jorge carries deep Spanish roots and has a mission to carry that forward. In 2024, she received the Cheri Brinley Outstanding Educator Award from SEEC at Space Center Houston, an honor that recognizes educators’ contributions to space exploration education. In 2023, she received the AIAA and Challenger Center Trailblazing STEM Educator award. This award recognizes educators who go above and beyond inspiring the next generation of space explorers and innovators.

Amy Medina Jorge, SEEC Ambassador, and Daniel Newmyer, Chief Learning Officer at Space Center Houston.

Teaching STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) curricula at the Odyssey Academy in Galveston, Texas, she is pushing the boundaries of what is beyond possible in the classroom. She has led more than 60 space experiments and Zero-Gravity projects, including biometric sensors developed by her students and has performed in-flight 3D printing as part of a parabolic Zero-G flight.

Now, with a Blue Origin spaceflight mission to her name, she is more than just her accolades. She is driven to champion Hispanic representation across STEM, expanding the inclusion of underrepresented communities. Her dedication is symbolically captured on the NS-32 Mission Patch, which features a microchip, gears, and the Pi symbol.

Blue Origin’s NS-32 crewed flight launched on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from West Texas. The mission is the 12th crewed flight under the New Shepard program and the 32nd mission overall.

On behalf of Space Center Houston, congratulations to Amy Medina Jorge!

For more information about Blue Origin’s NS-32 flight, visit here.

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Top High School Innovators Named Pete Conrad Scholars at the 2025 Conrad Challenge, Hosted by Space Center Houston and Presented by Equinor https://spacecenter.org/conrad-scholars-at-the-2025-conrad-challenge/ Mon, 28 Apr 2025 21:12:36 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=83254 HOUSTON, TEXAS (APRIL 28, 2025) – Since the start of the 2024-25 school year, nearly 2,000 high school teams and 5,000 students from more than 80 countries collaborated across oceans […]

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HOUSTON, TEXAS (APRIL 28, 2025) – Since the start of the 2024-25 school year, nearly 2,000 high school teams and 5,000 students from more than 80 countries collaborated across oceans and time zones to develop viable solutions to global challenges in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Competing for first place titles as “Pete Conrad Scholars,” the top 31 student teams convened at Space Center Houston for the Conrad Challenge Innovation Summit and EXPO finals sponsored by Equinor.

Founded in 2007 by Nancy Conrad in honor of her late husband, NASA astronaut Charles “Pete” Conrad, the Challenge inspires students to design today’s solutions for tomorrow’s challenges, carrying forward his legacy for innovation and exploration.

Nancy Conrad, founder and chair of the Conrad Foundation, delivers a welcoming speech at Rocket Park. (Photo Courtesy, Space Center Houston).

The Challenge is one of the world’s most highly regarded global STEM innovation and entrepreneurship competitions where high school students (aged 13-18) present their STEM inventions to a panel of expert judges.

During Friday’s ceremonial dinner, four student teams were awarded the top honor, alongside four Power Pitch winners recognized in the categories of Aerospace & Aviation, Cyber-Technology & Security, Energy & Environment, Health & Nutrition, and Currents of Change (Water). 2 SPACECENTER.ORG Each winning team member is awarded scholarships, grants, patent support, laptops, and additional resources to further their journey.

“This year’s Conrad Challenge winners are truly exceptional innovators,” said William T. Harris, President and CEO of Space Center Houston. “Their passion and remarkable talent in creating inventions with the potential to benefit humanity both on Earth and in space are deserving of the highest award. We are extremely honored to welcome such talented young innovators to the Official Visitors Center of NASA Johnson Space Center for the 2025 Conrad Challenge.”

2024-2025 Conrad Challenge Top Awards

Aerospace & Aviation 

  • Pete Conrad Scholar: Sensair 
  • Power Pitch Winner:  Weathering Heights 

Cyber-Technology & Security 

  • Pete Conrad Scholar: WiFind 
  • Power Pitch Winner: SoberRide 

Energy & Environment 

  • Pete Conrad Scholar: SPIRo 
  • Power Pitch Winner: FireAids 

Health & Nutrition 

  • Pete Conrad Scholar: Neuropod 
  • Power Pitch Winner: Kinection 

Currents of Change: The Water Challenge 

  • Pete Conrad Scholar: ToiletWarrior 
  • Power Pitch Winner: Aquaneers: Shells for Water 

“My husband, Pete Conrad, was a steadfast supporter of innovators and entrepreneurs,” said Nancy Conrad, founder and chair of the Conrad Foundation. “I know he would be incredibly proud of every participant for their remarkable achievements at such a young age. They are not only helping to build a better future but also shaping the workforce of tomorrow.”

Throughout the summit, students, educators, Alumni Leadership Council (ALC) members, judges, and corporate sponsors forge lasting connections that strengthen the Challenge’s global community. 

2025 Special Awards 

  • 2025 Teacher of the Year: Karin Sempf of Inno-Vanation Panama 
  • 2025 Searching for Better: Team Gevish 
  • Recognizing Alumni Leadership Council Members: Isabella Brakhage & Ella Bianco 
  • 2025 Donald James Citizenship Award: The Octopus from Georgia, USA  
  • 2025 Glinsky Expo Exhibit Award for Best Tabletop: Aquaneers: Shells for Water from Vietnam 
  • 2025 Glinsky Expo Exhibit Award forMost Persuasive:  Positive Impact Maker from The Republic of Korea   
  • 2025 Space Center Houston Award for Best Entrepreneurial Innovator: Moon from The United Kingdom 

To learn more about last year’s winners, visit 2024-25 Innovation Summit Finalists – Conrad Challenge.  

Students interested in applying to compete in the 2025-26 Conrad Challenge, visit Conrad Challenge.  

To see related posts, visit Space Center Houston Announces Equinor as Title Sponsor of the Conrad Challenge – Space Center Houston

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About Space Center Houston 

Space Center Houston’s shared purpose is to bring people and space closer together. Over 1.3 million visitors and more than 250,000 students and educators visit each year to connect with the significance of space exploration to pursue a path in STEM or follow along as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to make new discoveries. Space Center Houston is owned by the Manned Space Flight Education 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and generates an annual $118M economic impact to the Greater Houston area. Space Center Houston is a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center and a Certified Autism Center. Learn more at spacecenter.org

About Equinor  

Equinor is an international energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low-carbon future. We energize the lives of over 170 million people and companies around the world, every day. Our purpose: Energy for people. Progress for society. Searching for better. We aim to become a net-zero energy company by 2050. To do it, we’ll find new solutions in renewables, low-carbon and oil and gas. Headquartered in Stavanger, Norway, Equinor is the leading operator on the Norwegian continental shelf and present in around 30 countries worldwide. Learn more at www.equinor.com.   

MEDIA CONTACTS 

Rashena Franklin 
Communications and Marketing 
rfranklin@spacecenter.org  

Illiana Luna 
Public Relations Specialist 
iluna@spacecenter.org  

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Space Center Houston Welcomes Tom Hanks for a VIP Premiere of The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks https://spacecenter.org/space-center-houston-welcomes-tom-hanks-for-a-vip-premiere-of-the-moonwalkers-a-journey-with-tom-hanks/ Tue, 11 Mar 2025 15:44:14 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=82564 Space Center Houston will host Academy Award Winner Tom Hanks, Lightroom, and the production team for a VIP premiere of The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, a groundbreaking, immersive film experience at Space Center Houston.

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HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 10, 2025) – Space Center Houston will host Academy Award Winner Tom Hanks, Lightroom, and the production team for a VIP premiere of The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, a groundbreaking, immersive film experience at Space Center Houston.

Narrated and co-written by Hanks, The Moonwalkers isa multi-imaged presentation, with projection mapping on the walls and floor of the newly renovated 270-degree Space Center Theater. The film offers an intimate understanding of what it was like for the first men who walked on the moon and the community involved in preparing for the upcoming Artemis missions. Featuring interviews with Hanks and Artemis astronauts, the film explores their extraordinary experiences on a truly spectacular scale.

Video & Interview Opportunities:

Please contact us for daytime interviews

  • William T. Harris, President and CEO of Space Center Houston
  • Lightroom and 59 Studio – Richard Slaney, CEO
    Lightroom began as a joint venture between 59 Studio and London Theatre Company. Alongside The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, Lightroom’s repertoire of world-class artist-led programming includes David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away), Vogue: Inventing the Runway and the upcoming Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs.
  • Co-writer Christopher Riley
    Riley, the award-winning writer-director, is known for his work on several groundbreaking space documentaries for the BBC, Netflix, and PBS, as well as movies and films.  
  • Anne Nikitin
    Nikitin composed the stunning original score for The Moonwalkers which was recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at London’s iconic Abbey Road Studios. She is known for her works on the Apple TV+ hit series Hijack starring Idris Elba and American Animals with Evan Peters and Barry Keoghan.

About Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston’s shared purpose is to bring people and space closer together. Over 1.3 million visitors and more than 250,000 students and educators visit each year to connect with the significance of space exploration to pursue a path in STEM or follow along as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to make new discoveries. Space Center Houston is owned by the Manned Space Flight Education 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and generates an annual $118M economic impact to the Greater Houston area. Space Center Houston is a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, and a Certified Autism Center. Learn more at spacecenter.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS:   

Rashena Franklin, Manager of Communications  
713.301.4577

Illiana Luna, Public Relations Specialist  
iluna@spacecenter.org 

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The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks Opens Today at Space Center Houston https://spacecenter.org/the-moonwalkers-a-journey-with-tom-hanks-opens-today-at-space-center-houston/ Thu, 06 Mar 2025 21:11:52 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=82468 Experience a cinematic masterpiece with The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, presented by Lightroom at Space Center Houston. 

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Experience the 50-minute film across three walls and floor of Space Center Theater

HOUSTON, TEXAS (FEBRUARY 14, 2025) – Experience a cinematic masterpiece with The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, presented by Lightroom at Space Center Houston.  The Moonwalkers takes audiences behind the scenes of the Apollo missions in stunning detail, with narration by the iconic Tom Hanks. 

Space Center Houston is the first in the Americas to premiere The Moonwalkers. A VIP reception and screening was held on February 13 with Artemis II astronauts, NASA Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche, and Apollo 11 Flight Director Gene Kranz in attendance.

“I’m delighted to be bringing this project home to the place where the moonwalkers lived and worked throughout the Apollo program and where today’s Artemis crews are preparing to follow in their footsteps,” said Hanks.

Space Center Theater (Photo Courtesy, Space Center Houston)

Set in the newly upgraded Space Center Theater, the immersive experience transports viewers into space through seven projectors, offering an enhanced 270-degree visual display, along with closed captioning for accessibility by GLOBO, and multiple subwoofer speakers.

“We are thrilled to be the first venue in the Americas to showcase this extraordinary film,” said William T. Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston. “The Moonwalkers aligns perfectly with our mission of bringing people and space closer together.”

The Moonwalkers, co-directed by Nick Corrigan and Lysander Ashton of 59 Studio, brings humanity’s historic journey to the Moon to life with remastered visuals by Andy Saunders.

Co-written by Academy Award Winner Tom Hanks and double BAFTA-nominated writer and director Christopher Riley whose groundbreaking films and television programs have been shown on BBC, Netflix, and PBS, The Moonwalkers offers exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews with Artemis II astronauts — Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, as we embark on our return to the Moon. The film is accompanied by a stunning original score composed by Anne Nikitin whose previous works include the Apple TV+ hit series Hijack starring Idris Elba and American Animals with Evan Peters and Barry Keoghan.

The Moonwalkers is included in general admission to Space Center Houston. Showtimes are every hour, on the half hour.

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About Lightroom

Working together with the greatest artistic talents across art, music, film, fashion, science
and more, Lightroom has reimagined what an immersive experience can look like. Lightroom
began as a joint venture between 59 Studio and London Theatre Company. Lightroom’s
CEO is Richard Slaney, and its executive chair is Nick Starr, co-founder of London Theatre
Company. Lightroom is backed by a group of investors led by Sir Leonard Blavatnik who is
represented by Danny Cohen, President of Access Entertainment, and Mike Sherwood,
former co-CEO of Goldman Sachs International. Alongside The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, Lightroom’s repertoire of world-class artist-led programming includes David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away), Vogue: Inventing the Runway and the upcoming Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs.

About Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston’s shared purpose is to bring people and space closer together. Over 1.3 million visitors and more than 250,000 students and educators visit each year to connect with the significance of space exploration to pursue a path in STEM or follow along as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to make new discoveries. Space Center Houston is owned by the Manned Space Flight Education 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and generates an annual $118M economic impact to the Greater Houston area. Space Center Houston is a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, and a Certified Autism Center. Learn more at spacecenter.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:   

Rashena Franklin, 713.301.4577

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Top 5 Things to Do at Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival, Presented by Wellby Financial   https://spacecenter.org/2025-moon-2-mars-guide/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 22:41:05 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=82438 Ready to launch your spring break into orbit? Check out these Top 5 Must-Do Activities at Moon 2 Mars Festival.

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Spring Break just got a whole lot more exciting in Space City with Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival, presented by Wellby Financial. For two weeks beginning Sunday, March 9 through Saturday, March 22, guests can embark on a journey into space, where you’ll want to check out these Top 5 Must-Do Activities!  

1. Catch a Stellar Performance by Third Eye Blind and The Revivalists  

Get inspired by our Moon 2 Mars Spotify playlist featuring our TWO-HEADLINERS! 

On Saturday, March 15, get ready for an unforgettable night as Third Eye Blind takes the stage! With iconic hits like “Semi-Charmed Life,” “Jumper,” and “How’s It Going to Be,” this San Francisco-based band has earned a devoted fanbase and millions of albums sold. Their live performance promises to be electric, making it the perfect way to groove under the stars.  

Plus, our second headliner, The Revivalist takes the stage on Saturday, March 22. Known for their soulful alt-rock sound and electrifying live performances, this band has captivated audiences with anthemic hits like “Wish I Knew You,” which has amassed over 800 million streams, along with their latest album Pour It Out Into The Night. Get ready for an unforgettable night of powerful music that will leave you feeling energized and inspired! 

2. Explore Space Technology at the Innovation Tent 

The Moon 2 Mars Festival is your chance to dive deep into space innovation! Our Innovation Tent is the place to explore cutting-edge technologies with aerospace companies.  You’ll get a firsthand look at the incredible advancements being made as humanity prepares to return to the Moon and Mars. Don’t miss out on this interactive, awe-inspiring experience, available on March 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22.  

3. Meet an Astronaut and Get Inspired 

Ever dreamed of meeting an astronaut? The festival makes that dream a reality! On select days, including March 14, 15, 21, and 22, you can meet astronauts who will share their incredible experiences in space and achievements. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity only at Space Center Houston.  

4. Savor Delicious Food and Drinks 

What’s a festival without amazing food? During the Moon 2 Mars Festival, you can enjoy a variety of mouthwatering dishes and drinks from Wolfgang Puck. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before heading to an activation or settling in for a night of music, fuel your excitement with traditional favorites like our smoked turkey legs, tender pulled pork and irresistible barbecue brisket sandwiches and loaded ‘Nova’ nachos available throughout the festival’s duration!  

5. Catch The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks The First American Premiere in Space City! 

Experience the Apollo missions like never before with, The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks. Relive the stories through Tom Hanks’ narration, depicting humanity’s never-ending curiosity and perseverance featuring interviews with the NASA Artemis II crew.  In the newly renovated Space Center Theatre, guests will embark on an immersive journey within a 270-degree theater space, where remastered visuals span across three walls and the floor. This unforgettable experience is included with general admission and runs every half hour. 

Rain or shine! Access to the festival is included in the cost of general admission for March 9-22, 2025. For the complete schedule and operating hours of the Moon 2 Mars Festival, visit https://spacecenter.org/moon2marsfestival/  

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Space Center Houston Awards the Cherri Brinley Outstanding Educator Award to Javier Montiel at the 31st Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC) https://spacecenter.org/space-center-houston-awards-the-cherri-brinley-outstanding-educator-award-to-javier-montiel-at-the-31st-space-exploration-educators-conference-seec/ Thu, 20 Feb 2025 15:17:46 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=82021 Each year, Space Center Houston honors a distinguished educator with the Cherri Brinley Outstanding Educator Award, recognizing their contributions to space exploration education at the Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC). […]

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Javier Montiel, a bilingual aerospace educator and a 14-year presenter at Space Center Houston, received the distinguished Cherri Brinley Outstanding Educator Award at the 31st Anniversary of the Space Educators Exploration Conference (SEEC) held at Space Center Houston. From left to right: Alan Charles Brinley, (son of Cherri Brinley), Angela Case, Javier Montiel and Ann Hernandez.  (Photo Courtesy, Space Center Houston)

Each year, Space Center Houston honors a distinguished educator with the Cherri Brinley Outstanding Educator Award, recognizing their contributions to space exploration education at the Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC).   

On Friday, February 7 the Cherri Brinley Outstanding Educator Award was presented to Javier Montiel, an aerospace educator andfounder of the International Aerospace Academy, a nonprofit empowering community through collaborative STEM programs and space education.  

Montiel has been recognized globally for his efforts; connecting students and teachers from Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, Estonia, and Romania. His work has been featured in the 3M Latin America Blog as one of the Best Stories of 2019 and was featured in the award-winning film Apizaco at the Cinespace/Houston Cinema Arts Festival. 

Beyond his educational pursuits, Montiel holds the 2024 ISS National Lab STEM Award and was named one of the Top 100 Leaders in Education at the 2020 Global Forum for Education and Learning. Through his hands-on learning initiatives with ExoLab, VR/AR, Artificial Intelligence, and ISS Mimic lessons, Montiel inspires students’ passion for space exploration. 

The Cherri Brinley Award is a longstanding tradition awarded at SEEC, in honor of the Houston native science educator, Cherri Brinley.  Despite her courageous battle with terminal cancer, she inspired her peers and students to continue advancing in space exploration education with passion.   

Brinley taught at the St. Edwards Catholic School in Spring, TX, seeking to turn space program opportunities into a reality for her students and was deeply admired by many. The award was created to recognize Brinley’s dedication to educators who share the same commitment to reach for the Moon and beyond.  

“In a world where education shapes the future, this educator stands as a beacon of excellence,” said Daniel Newmyer, Space Center Houston’s Chief Learning Officer. “Javier’s unwavering commitment to fostering young minds and bridging classroom learning with real-world applications embodies the spirit of Cherri Brinley.”  

Pictured above, is Montiel presenting a Spanish session entitled “Habitat Tales: Bridging Art, Science, and Coding in Space Exploration” on Friday, Feb. 7. In addition to his teachings and leading official courses with NASA Johnson Space Center, he has developed strategies for NASA’s SPARX pilot program, collaborating with the Aviation Youth Mentoring program involving participants from nine countries. His mission is to empower communities through research, technology, passion, and meaningful projects. (Photo Courtesy, Space Center Houston)

Over 550 educators participated in this year’s three-day conference held February 6-8, which provided K-12 teachers with hands-on learning experience focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The event showcased keynote speaker Matthew Greenhouse, a NASA scientist, and featured NASA astronaut Megan McArthur, Chief Science Officer at Space Center Houston, as the panel moderator for “Lessons from Astronaut Training School.” The panel also included retired NASA astronauts Steve Bowen and Tony Antonelli, both members of the class of 2000. Apollo 13 astronaut Fred Haise was also in attendance.

Educators from diverse backgrounds engaged in STEM activities, including computer coding, VR moonwalking, creating classroom-sized spacecraft or Mars/Moon habitats, and more. Participants can earn up to 24 hours of continuing education credits.  

The post Space Center Houston Awards the Cherri Brinley Outstanding Educator Award to Javier Montiel at the 31st Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC) appeared first on Space Center Houston.

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Spring Break Fun at Space Center Houston: Join Our Five-Day Explorer Day Camps with STEM Activities, March 10-21 https://spacecenter.org/spring-break-fun-at-space-center-houston-join-our-five-day-explorer-day-camps-with-stem-activities-march-10-21/ Wed, 19 Feb 2025 18:59:55 +0000 https://spacecenter.org/?p=81999 Plus, Moon 2 Mars Festival presented by Wellby March 9 – 22 Sign up this spring break to secure your spot at Space Center Houston’s Explorer Camps before seats fill […]

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Plus, Moon 2 Mars Festival presented by Wellby March 9 – 22

Young explorers create rockets during Explorer Day Camp at Space Center Houston, helping develop STEM skills. (Photo Courtesy, Space Center Houston)

Sign up this spring break to secure your spot at Space Center Houston’s Explorer Camps before seats fill up. Give your young astronaut an unforgettable mission filled with exciting, hands-on STEM activities, open to children ages 4-11. Plus, enjoy the Moon 2 Mars Festival presented by Wellby for a celebration of innovation that’s out of this world!

Spring Break Five-Day Explorer Camps Include:  

Ages 4-5 

Lunar Explorers | March 10-14, 2025 
Young explorers will discover astronaut challenges, navigate the Moon with robotics, and explore its place in the Solar System. 

Our Place in Space | March 17-21, 2025 
Campers discover all the features that make Earth the most desirable place for us to call home. Learn all about the Earth cycles and Earth’s position in the solar system through art and STEM activities. 

Ages 6-7 

Journey to the Moon | March 10-14, 2025 
This lunar camp introduces young explorers to Moon missions through robotics, coding challenges, rocketry, and astronaut training. 

Journey to Space | March 17-21, 2025 
How do astronauts work in space? How do robots work? What do engineers do? All these questions and more are answered as campers explore space through art, science, robotics, and engineering activities. 

Ages 8-9 

Lunar Exploration | March 10-14, 2025 
Inspire your explorer with space achievements, engineering challenges, robotics, and mission training. 

Junior Robotics | March 17-21, 2025 
Campers dive into space robotics, tackling hands-on challenges using various robotic platforms. Through project-based learning, they develop STEM and coding skills to complete their exploration mission. 

Ages 10-11 

The Moon & Beyond | March 10-14, 2025 
Experience hands-on engineering, robotics, and habitat simulations to explore what it takes to return to the Moon. 

Engineering Space | March 17-21, 2025 
Join NASA engineers in exploring space! Campers use robotics and engineering to solve challenges and complete mission objectives. 

Looking for More Spring Break Fun? Try These DIY STEM Activities at Home! 

  • Try the Egg Drop Challenge!🏗🥚  
    Get the whole family involved in the fun! Create a contraption to protect an egg from a drop using materials like tape, cardboard, cotton, straws, string, paper, and, of course, eggs. Each person or team can design their unique creation. Drop them from the same height and see if your eggs survive! For a younger audience, feel free to adjust the challenge to suit their skills. 🥳✨ #FamilyFun #ScienceActivity #EggDropChallenge 
    Resources: https://www.weareteachers.com/egg-drop-ideas/ , https://www.msichicago.org/science-at-home/hands-on-science/egg-drop-challenge

  • St. Patrick’s Day STEM “Leprechaun DIY Trap”  
    Try to catch a leprechaun with these fun and creative Leprechaun Trap Ideas, with a free printable planning page! While leprechauns are mythical creatures, they’re a playful way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, 2025. Get inventive with your DIY Leprechaun Trap Kits like a Mini Garden Leprechaun Trap or a LEGO Leprechaun Trap.  
    Resources: https://bitl.to/3wGP and https://bitl.to/3wGQ 

  • Host a STEM Movie Marathon! 🎬✨  
    Mix it up with math and movies that delight the whole family! Invite your kids in the kitchen to create delicious meals or treats that boost their math and culinary skills; just like an astronaut, then enjoy a STEM-themed movie.  

    Big Hero 6 
    Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 
    Honey, I Shrunk the Kids 
    Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory 
    Robots by Disney 

Space Center Houston Summer Explorer Camps to be announced soon.

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