5/11: Commissioning Ambition (Armstrong, Kelly)

The National Flight Academy announced today — program elements for the much anticipated Commissioning of "Ambition", the brand new, land-locked, scenically and theatrically outfitted aircraft carrier, located in Pensacola, Florida — the birthplace of aviation heroes and innovation.

Ambition brings the latest in multisensory media and simulation technologies coupled with dynamic teaching methods into an aviation-themed in-residence multi-day STEM-based educational program for 7th-12th graders. It has been described as "theme-park-meets-think-tank". The facility also accommodates an exciting environment for business team building, meetings and retreats.

The keynote address will be given by Mark Kelly, an American astronaut, retired US Navy Captain and an experienced Naval Aviator who flew combat missions during the Gulf War. Mark flew his first of four missions in 2001 aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour, the same space shuttle that he commanded on its final flight in May 2011. He is one of only two individuals who visited the International Space Station on four different occasions. Mark will be joined by space legends, Mr. Neil Armstrong and retired US Navy Captain Gene Cernan, as well as elite National Flight Academy partners and supporters from across the country.

The inaugural class of Ambition students from area high schools will board the simulated aircraft carrier for the first official sessions of exciting immersive aviation missions and educational play. High fidelity flight simulators are virtually networked with operation centers creating an unparalleled experience. Ambition is equal parts, fun, science, technology, math, science and robust team building. The National Flight Academy is funded by Naval Aviation Museum Foundation private investment.

Commissioning is on May 11, 2012 beginning at 8:30 a.m. on the grand lawns of the National Flight Academy. The event is open to the public and guests are encouraged to park and enter through the National Naval Aviation Museum located aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola.