For the first time ever, the spacecraft that carried the Apollo 11 astronauts to the Moon and back, can be seen at our Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. The Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia is temporarily in the Mary Baker Engen Restoration Hangar, where it will undergo conservation treatment. Join us for this rare
opportunity to go behind-the-scenes to learn about the work in progress and talk to experts preserving this historic spacecraft for future generations.
We'll have a variety of activities and experts on hand as you learn about the Apollo program and join conversations about how the Moon landing has inspired you — whether you witnessed the event or were born after. Explore how Apollo and the Moon landing transformed our lives 50 years ago and continues to influence space exploration and inspire people today and into the future.
Among the event highlights:
- Go inside the Museum's Restoration Hangar where staff work to conserve, restore, and preserve spacecraft and aircraft.
- See the Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia undergoing conservation treatment and meet the experts who care for the artifact.
- Take a virtual 3D tour of the Command Module.
- Talk to experts who moved the Command Module Columbia from Washington, D.C., to Chantilly, Va., and learn about the preparation that goes into moving large artifacts.
- Explore Apollo objects on display including Neil Armstrong's helmet and gloves, a section of Saturn V rocket, and the original Apollo 11 splashdown recovery objects.
- View Apollo-related objects brought out from our Archives storage.
- Enjoy family-friendly activities from 3D printing demos to viewing the Moon through telescopes.
- Learn about Destination Moon, an upcoming exhibition at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., and Columbia's eventual home.
Can't join in person? Participate online with a day-long webcast and live social media interactions where you can join experts and the community in conversations about Apollo through the ages.