As we close out the year of Apollo, it gives us time to reflect on what a wonderful time it’s been.
This year, we’ve already welcomed more than 1.1 million visitors to date, marking our highest annual attendance since opening in 1992. We had our best-ever Spring Break, June, July and Labor Day weekend. Since 2012, we have experienced an exponential 70 percent increase in visitors.
What made this year so special?
Twins Study – After Scott Kelly spent a year in space, researchers had a trove of data to pour through. What did they learn? A fun event at the center saw scientists presenting their research to the public.
Peanuts Mural – Snoopy in space? Artist Kenny Scharf unveiled his rendition of Charlie Brown and Snoopy–uniquely-wrapped around an 18’x15’ NASA International Space Station Training Module to create a new art installation on display at Space Center Houston entitled The Peanuts Project: The Heavens and the Earth.
Apollo Mission Control Center reopening – After a successful Kickstarter campaign and a generous gift from the City of Webster, we reopened the restored Apollo Mission Control Center in June.
50th anniversary of Apollo 11 – To mark the 50th anniversary of some of the most impactful steps in history, we held a festival and concert to honor the lunar landing and Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the Moon.
Astronaut Week – In October, the center hosted the Association of Space Explorers Planetary Congress, which was the largest ever gathering of fliers in one place. In addition to opening and closing ceremonies, we brought in speakers all week to make for an impactful learning experience.
Galaxy Lights – Last but not least, we launched our newest holiday tradition. Featuring the most technologically advanced light experience in Texas, Galaxy Lights, presented by Reliant, is a magical way to spend your December evening.
There’s so much more to celebrate about a fantastic year. We’re sure 2020 will be even better, especially with the landing of our new SpaceX Falcon 9 exhibit. After all, there’s always something new to see and do at Space Center Houston.
