August 25, 2023
What: Astronomy aficionados and future astronomers only have a few more days to explore “Space: An Out-of-Gravity Experience.” The popular and engaging touring exhibition closes at the Science Museum of Virginia on Labor Day. Showcasing how astronauts live and work, “Space” features dozens of hands-on stations letting guests explore the extraordinary environment of space, including the dangers humans face during their missions and adaptations engineers have developed to help them survive. Unlike many space exhibitions that focus on the history of cosmic adventures, “Space” looks to the future, both in what scientific innovations will be needed and what considerations are involved when (not if!) we construct a colony on Mars.
Interactive elements and challenges in “Space” help guests learn through play. The exhibition also includes a rotating replica of a portion of the International Space Station and NASA video footage showcasing the challenges and accomplishments of scientists, astronauts and engineers involved in all stages of the process.
When: “Space: An Out-of-Gravity Experience” closes Monday, Sept. 4, after being on display at the Science Museum since May. The Science Museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why: In addition to exploring the touring exhibition before it leaves Richmond, the Science Museum is offering a special promotion through the end its run. Guests who pay for “Space” can see an astronomy film in The Dome for free!
Showing at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily, the new short film “Astronaut: Ocean to Orbit” reveals the high-tech ways NASA uses subaquatic environments to mimic life and work in space. “Birth of Planet Earth” plays at 3 p.m. daily. It takes viewers back 5 billion years to the origins of our planet to discover how Earth became a living planet and explores what history tells us about finding other life in the universe.
The free Dome feature is only valid for one astronomy show on the same day guests see the “Space” exhibition.
Who: The multisensory experience is designed for all ages. It was developed by the Science Museum of Minnesota in partnership with the International Space Station Office of NASA's Johnson Space Center, the California Science Center and partner museums.
“Space” is presented locally by Markel.
How: “Space” is available through a combination ticket that includes access to the Science Museum’s regular exhibitions, labs and demos. Admission is $22 for adults; $19 for youth (ages 6-12) and seniors (ages 60 and older); and $15 for preschool-aged children (ages 3-5). Discounts are available for teachers, military personnel and through the Museums for All program.
Science Museum members receive unlimited free admission to the Science Museum and the touring exhibition. The free Dome feature promotion is not available for members as their yearly perks already include Dome passes.
Guests may purchase tickets on the Science Museum’s website or in person at Guest Services when they arrive.
Where: Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220