National Air and Space Museum Unveils New Galleries: A Summer Journey Through Space and Aviation History
Get ready for liftoff! The National Air and Space Museum is preparing to launch five brand-new exhibitions on July 28th, offering visitors an immersive journey through the past, present, and future of aerospace. This highly anticipated debut marks a significant milestone in the museum's multiyear renovation project, promising a revitalized experience for space and aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
The grand reveal includes the redesigned entrance on Jefferson Drive, the state-of-the-art Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater, and, most excitingly, five new galleries packed with iconic artifacts and interactive displays. Among the treasures to be unveiled are the Sopwith F.1 Camel, Virgin Galactic’s RocketMotorTwo, and a Goddard 1935 A series rocket, each telling a unique story of innovation and exploration.
One of the flagship exhibitions, "Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall,” will showcase some of the museum's most recognizable objects, including John Glenn’s Mercury Friendship 7 capsule and an Apollo lunar module meticulously configured to mirror Apollo 11's Eagle. Visitors can also marvel at the North American X-15 rocket plane and even touch a piece of the moon!
Venture into the future with the "Futures in Space" exhibition, a thought-provoking exploration of the potential of space exploration. From the future of commercial spaceflight to the challenges of sustaining human life in new environments, this gallery sparks critical conversations about humanity's cosmic aspirations. Debuting within "Futures in Space" are a Virgin Galactic "RocketMotorTwo" engine and a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket grid fin, showcasing cutting-edge technology pushing the boundaries of space travel.
Other galleries opening include "Barron Hilton Pioneers of Flight," "World War I: The Birth of Military Aviation," and the Allan and Shelley Holt Innovations Gallery, and the the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater. Each tells a unique story of invention and daring.
The museum's extensive renovation is slated to be completed on July 1, 2026, perfectly coinciding with its 50th anniversary and the U.S.'s 250th anniversary. Further gallery openings in 2026 will include displays relating to how things fly, space age living, and WWII aviation history.
Timed-entry passes are required for entry and can be reserved on the museum's website starting June 13. Don’t miss your chance to witness the dawn of a new era at the National Air and Space Museum!
What are you most excited to see at the newly renovated National Air and Space Museum? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
