Gateway launches at Kennedy Space Center

Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

A legendary F-104 Starfighter flyby kicked off the grand opening of Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex yesterday.

Confetti and sparks flew as Jerry Jacobs, Jr., CEO, Delaware North, Janet Petro, director, Kennedy Space Center, and Therrin Protze, COO, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, pushed a ceremonial red button to officially welcome guests and invite them to a first glimpse inside the new, 50,000-square-foot attraction.

With a focus on the present and future of collaborative space exploration, guests to Gateway can experience the interstellar travel of tomorrow while celebrating everything happening right now within the space program. Through immersive education, atmospheric effects, and a motion theater experience, guests see, hear, and feel what it’s like to travel in space. It features a showcase of NASA and commercial spacecraft hardware as well as the spaceport of the future, Spaceport KSC.

“Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex is a bold new attraction where guests will personally experience NASA’s next giant leap and beyond, highlighting all the excitement within the space industry,” said Protze.

Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex Highlights include:

  • Aerojet Rocketdyne RL10 Upper-stage Rocket Engine
  • Boeing Starliner Simulator (scale model)
  • Lockheed Martin Space Habitat (scale mockup)
  • Orion Exploration Flight Test-1 Capsule (flight flown)
  • Sierra Space Dream Chaser (full-scale model)
  • SpaceX Cargo Dragon COTS-2 (flight flown)
  • SpaceX Falcon 9 booster (flight flown)
  • ULA Delta IV Heavy rocket (scale model)
  • ULA Vulcan rocket (scale model)
Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

In addition to offering a “nose-to-nose” view of the SpaceX Falcon 9 booster, Gateway’s second floor features a 30-foot, floor-to-ceiling Robotic Space Explorers Interactive Wall touchscreen display where guests can learn about 40 different satellites and probes in space. A HoloTube presentation station teaches about the high-powered James Webb Space Telescope through holographic imagery, video, and animation via a touchscreen kiosk.

At Spaceport KSC, guests are transported to an airport of the future, hearing the atmospheric airport chatter and seeing distant views of active launches and landings through galactic spaceport windows.

The main concourse showcases destination, departure, and arrival information. Guests then board “spaceships” – in the form of a two-story, motion theater – for one of four journeys: Cosmic Wonders, Daring Explorers, Red Planet, or Uncharted Worlds. Each distinct destination allows for the possibility of a different experience with each visit.

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New Tours at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Welcome Fountain

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex guests have another opportunity to get closer to space and history through two new bus tours.

The Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour offers access to the sites of the Mercury and Gemini launches, seaside launch pads, and more, while the Cape Canaveral Rise to Space tour offers access to restricted and historic areas of Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, led by a space expert.

Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour (Available Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday)

The unwavering American spirit comes to life as participants hear stories of the early days of space exploration as they visit the very places history was made on the Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour.

America’s space program was born on the sunny coast of Florida at (what was then) Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in 1950. Before NASA built Kennedy Space Center, rockets soared into Earth’s orbit from an extensive complex of launch pads meant to propel America into the future, courtesy of the U.S. Air Force. Visitors can tour this historic military site now known as Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, including launch complexes where Alan Shepard and the rest of the Mercury 7 astronauts blasted into space and Project Gemini’s two-person launches helped us learn how to send astronauts to the Moon.

Tour stops also include:

  • The Air Force Space & Missile Museum
  • The Mercury 7 Monument
  • Launch Complex 34, the memorial site for the crew of Apollo 1

The Early Space Tour costs $25 plus tax per adult, $19 plus tax for children ages 3-11. 

CAPE CANAVERAL’S RISE TO SPACE TOUR

Access restricted and historic areas of Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and learn about America’s early space program. This tour lasts about 4.5 hours and visits the following locations:*

  • Travel to the Sands Space History Center for a docent-led tour.
  • Take a look at the Pad 26 Blockhouse before visiting the Air Force Space & Missile Museum.
  • Go inside the historic Hangar C and see spacecraft and aircraft.
  • Visit the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse.**
  • See the Mercury 7 Monument at Launch Complex 14, as well as inside the historic blockhouse.
  • Drive by Launch Complex 19.
  • Pay respects at Pad 34, the historic site of Apollo 1.

*This tour may be customized, as stops will vary based on Cape Canaveral Space Force Station operational requirements.
** The historic lighthouse is not wheelchair accessible. However, those with mobility challenges are able to tour the lighthouse grounds or explore Hangar C for a longer period of time if preferred.

The tour concludes by returning to the visitor complex. Explore on your own for the remainder of the day. Please note that, unlike other Special Interest Tours, this tour does not conclude the Apollo/Saturn V Center.

Cape Canaveral’s Rise to Space Tour costs $75 per person, ages 14 and older (plus tax).

Before You Book

Due to restricted access at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, all guests, U.S. citizens, and non-U.S. citizens are required to pre-register each participant’s information for identity verification. Before purchasing tickets, guests will be prompted to fill out a form with each guest’s (regardless of age) name, date of birth, country of birth, and passport/government-issued ID details. If a party member is a U.S. citizen under the age of 18 and does not have a government-issued ID yet, a guardian may use his/her own ID for registration. Guest are required to bring and present documentation.

Each visitor on this tour must register with visitor complex security officers between 8:45 and 10 a.m. on the day of the tour at the Information Center located at the main entrance. For U.S. citizens, a U.S. government-issued driver’s license, passport, military ID or U.S. state ID card is required for tour participants age 18 and over.

International adult and child participants must present an original, valid passport to participate. Passport cards and photocopies of passports are not accepted as a valid form of ID for this tour. Please note, per Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, guests without an original ID will not be permitted by to participate in this tour.

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Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Announces New Attraction

In an ongoing mission to bring the epic story of the U.S. space program to life, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex today announced a new attraction. Slated to open in March 2022, Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex.

The new exhibit will focus on the present and future of collaborative space exploration, enabling guests to experience the interstellar travel of tomorrow while celebrating what is happening right now within the space program. It will feature a showcase of NASA and commercial spacecraft hardware with immersive displays, as well as a “journey” through space, unique launch viewing opportunities, and more.

The 50,000-square-foot, multi-level attraction, currently under construction in the shadow of the Rocket Garden, will engage and inspire guests through one-of-a-kind experiences, artifacts, and exhibits.

Featuring a comprehensive collection of modern-day spacecraft, Gateway will offer the opportunity to explore the future of space travel in a way never before possible.

Through immersive education, atmospheric effects, and a 4D motion theatre, guests will see, experience, and feel what it is actually like to travel in space.

The striking façade of the Gateway building is designed to capture attention and spark imagination even before entering. The outside walls are accented with iridescent panels of bright turquoise that will alternate with shades of purple, replicating the constant motion and brilliant colors of the universe.

Upon entering Gateway on the first level, “space travelers” will be greeted with a futuristic design intended to set the stage for their journey. Displayed like massive space sculptures in an outdoor garden, visitors will be surrounded by actual space-flown artifacts and full-scale models, placed around the floor and suspended from above to allow 360-degree viewing and interaction.

Highlights of the new exhibit at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex include:

  • Orion Crew Vehicle from EFT-1 Mission (space flown)
  • Boeing CST-100 Starliner Crew Vehicle (full-scale engineering model)
  • SpaceX Falcon 9 booster, officially known as Booster 1023, which supported two SpaceX missions (space flown)
  • Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser (full scale replica)
  • NASA Space Launch System (scale model)
  • ULA Atlas V and Delta IV heavy (scale model)

As well as offering a “nose-to-nose” view of the SpaceX Falcon 9 booster, Gateway’s second floor features a 30-foot, floor-to-ceiling Robotic Trail Blazers Wall with interactive, touchscreen displays through which guests can learn about almost 40 different satellites and probes in space.

Also in this area will be a HoloTube presentation station where guests can learn about the high-powered James Webb Space Telescope by manipulating holographic imagery, video, and animation through a touchscreen kiosk.

Nearby, guests will be transported into the future of space travel at Spaceport KSC, the first and only airport of the future.

Upon entering the concourse, travelers will be surrounded by the sights and sounds of a galactic spaceport: atmospheric airport chatter will surround travelers as they peer through windows at distant views of active launches and landings.

The main concourse features multiple screens that will showcase destination promo videos and departure and arrival information. Guests will then board their “spaceships” – in the form of a two-story, 4D flying theater – for one of four journeys: Cosmic Wonders, Daring Explorers, Red Planet, or Uncharted Worlds. Each distinct destination allows for the possibility of a different experience with each visit.

Gateway’s rooftop will be a versatile space for both launch and landing viewing and hosting special events.

Affixed to the rooftop will be a Planewave CDK20 Telescope with an Espirit 100mm triplet deep-sky APO Refractor, and an Altair 125mm solar refractor will offer access to some of the sky’s most amazing celestial and solar wonders. The stunning images can then be shared for educational purposes.

As always, the health and safety of employees and guests is the highest priority for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations, the visitor complex continues to operate at a limited attendance, accommodating social distancing, encouraging advance daily admission purchases, and implementing increased frequency of sanitization and disinfection. All guests, including those vaccinated against COVID-19, are required to wear face coverings in all indoor locations, except when actively eating or drinking. This includes all attractions, attraction queues, show viewing areas, restaurants, and buses. Guests who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are not required to wear face coverings outdoors. Additional details are available at: www.kennedyspacecenter.com/info/coronavirus.

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Holidays at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center December 2020

The holiday season has landed early this year at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex!

Special Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals are just beginning, holiday season guests can look forward to revamped festive experiences, and new virtual offerings for kids to enjoy over the holiday break.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

Available for purchase on Friday, November 26 only, a special Black Friday deal for a 13-month Atlantis Annual Pass provides the passholder access to the visitor complex for the remainder of 2021 as well as all of 2022 (expiring December 31, 2022).

The 13-month Atlantis Annual Pass can be purchased at a discounted rate of $86 + tax per adult, and $68 + tax per child aged 3-11, a $10 savings.

The Black Friday offer will be available online and through the Reservations Department (855-433-4210).

On Cyber Monday, savvy shoppers can take advantage of a Buy-One, Get-One daily admission to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for just $57 + tax.

Available only on Monday, November 29, 2021, this offer includes free child daily admission with the purchase of each adult ticket.

This special offer provides one-day access to the visitor complex and must be used by December 24, 2021.

This Cyber Monday offer is available through the Reservations Department (855-433-4210) and online only.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center December 2020
Holidays in Space

Move over, pumpkins. As the fall holidays come to a close, the visitor complex will delightfully transform into a universe of twinkling lights and memorable experiences.

This year, guests can experience magnificent holiday décor throughout the park – from the transformation of the big NASA meatball that greets guests at the entrance into a holiday ornament, wreaths adorning every lamp post, a reimagined holiday tree, thousands of lights in dazzling displays and much more.

New to this year’s Holidays in Space will be a Winter Wonderland, beginning December 17 and located next to the Atlantis attraction.

This free-standing experience sponsored by Pepsi Zero Sugar, will take place under a large enclosure and feature holiday-themed, engaging and interactive education stations, holiday photo opportunities, performers, a DJ and more.

The Winter Wonderland runs through December 31, 2021.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center December 2020
Kennedy Space Center Club Discovery

Over the holiday break, young space enthusiasts and future explorers can experience Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex from the comfort of their homes through a virtual Kennedy Space Center Club Discovery experience.

At $30 per person, kids in grades 3 – 6 will have the chance to participate in one of two virtual missions: Spacewalk or Moon Base.

Each 3-hour program, offered Monday, December 27 – Friday, December 31, will feature STEM activities that can be completed using normal household items.

More information, as well as registration for the programs, can be found at the following link: KSC Club Discovery.

As always, the health and safety of employees and guests is the highest priority for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations, the visitor complex continues to operate at a limited attendance, accommodating social distancing, encouraging advance daily admission purchases, and implementing increased frequency of sanitization and disinfection. The visitor complex has updated the face mask policy. All guests, including those vaccinated against COVID-19, are required to wear face coverings in all indoor locations, except when actively eating or drinking. This includes all attractions, attraction queues, show viewing areas, restaurants and buses. Guests who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are not required to wear face coverings outdoors. Additional details are available at: www.kennedyspacecenter.com/info/coronavirus.

Want to find even more holiday fun around the City Beautiful? Follow @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube
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On the Go in MCO: Summer Must Do’s

On the Go in MCO Summer Must Do's

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

Summer is wrapping up, so I wanted to make sure that no stone was left unturned when it came to finding fun On the Go in MCO!!!

On the Go in MCO: Summer Must Do’s

Hollywood Drive-In Golf at Universal CityWalk

Hollywood Drive-In Golf has two state-of-the-art 18-hole courses that are unlike any other miniature golf experience. 

Inspired by the 1950’s era, guests enter a classic drive-in theater box office area where they select either a “single-feature” (18-holes) or “double-feature” (36-holes) with a choice of two family-friendly courses, “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens” and “Invaders From Planet Putt.”

Based on vintage horror flicks and “little green men” science fiction films, guests putt through elaborate movie-style scenes, passing through a cemetery, under a giant spider, around an enormous alien robot, through the open mouth of a giant space worm, and into the basement lab of a towering haunted house.

Cutting-edge interactive elements and special effects immerse guests further into the “double feature,” and LED neon edge-lighting allows play during the day, night, and late night.


Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

KSCVC is the epicenter of humankind’s greatest adventures, a launchpad to experiencing and exploring a space adventure. 

With attractions that allow you to view the Space Shuttle Atlantis and to go back to the race to the moon and look forward to exploring other planets, KSCVC delights and inspires. 


And don’t forget that while you learn there are exhibits, photo ops, and of course freeze-dried ice cream. 


What’s super exciting is that they announced the new Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex experience that will showcase NASA and commercial spaceflight and an immersive “journey” through space taking off March 2022.

On the Go in MCO Summer Must Do's

Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens – Sanford, Florida

Leave Central Florida, and step into a tropical world that is home to some of our planet’s rarest animals as well as local wildlife like the Florida black bear and the American alligator. 

Throughout the day there are opportunities to learn about the animals in the Keeper Chats, take a spin on the carousel or hop aboard the miniature train. 


The adventurous can experience the Seminole Aerial Adventure zipline or cool off at the Wharton Smith Tropical Splash Ground. 

Want to really get wild? You can feed giraffes and book special experiences like a rhinoceros encounter. 


For more activities On the Go in MCO, make sure follow @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube!

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Apollo/Saturn V Center Reopens at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Race to the Moon

Following a temporary closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will be delivering guests “Back to the Moon” by way of the Apollo/Saturn V Center beginning today, March 15.

In accordance with new health and safety guidelines, seats on the bus will be limited and are subject to availability.

Guests will use a kiosk near the bus transport entrance to select a departure time and reserve their spot on the bus.

When a boarding time is announced for departure, guests will be welcomed inside a gated area with social distancing markings.

Once inside the bus, passengers will be seated in a socially distanced manner for the short trip directly to the Apollo/Saturn V Center and can return at their leisure.

No advance reservations for bus transportation are available.

The health and safety of employees and guests is the highest priority for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and the bus rides to the Apollo/Saturn V Center are no exception.

Departures will be timed to minimize crowding as well as time on board the bus. Drivers are specially trained to disinfect the buses after arrival at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, again following return to the visitor complex bus queue and prior to the start of each day to ensure a worry-free travel experience.

Passengers will be required to wear face coverings and seating and capacity will be appropriately managed to maintain proper social distancing.

For more information, visit www.kennedyspacecenter.com/info/coronavirus

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Holidays in Space Return to Kennedy Space Center

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center December 2020

The North Pole is taking up residence in the cosmosphere this December as Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex unveils this year’s Holidays in Space from December 21 – 30*, as the visitor complex will be transformed into a holiday wonderland – snow included.

“This has been a difficult year for all of us. We wanted to create a holiday-themed escape for our guests, reminding us all that the joy, light and warmth of the holiday season is alive and well at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex,” said Therrin Protze, chief operating officer, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center December 2020

From 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., guests will delight in the festive holiday décor that has taken over the visitor complex. From the NASA meatball turned holiday ornament, to shooting stars adorning light poles, a mosaic holiday tree, and walk-through ornaments in the Rocket Garden – seasonal spirit abounds. Beginning at 1 p.m., snow will begin to fall and a dance party will commence.

The Holidays in Space experience is included with daily admission. For more information and to book a visit, go to www.kennedyspacecenter.com.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center December 2020

*Holidays in Space will not be open December 24 or 25. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will be closed on Christmas Day, December 25.

Trusted Space

 As always, the health and safety of crew members and guests is the highest priority for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has implemented safety protocols to ensure a trusted space for the well-being of our crew and guests.

 In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations, the visitor complex will continue all precautionary measures, including limited capacity and encouraging advance daily admission purchases; requiring face coverings and temperature screening for employees and guests; accommodating social distancing queues, restaurants, show viewing areas, and other facilities throughout the complex; and implementing increased frequency of sanitization and disinfection.

Additional details are available at: www.kennedyspacecenter.com/info/coronavirus  

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Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Announces Opening Date

Leadership at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex announced that the visitor complex will reopen to guests effective Thursday, May, 28, 2020 with reduced admission, attendance limits, and some attractions unavailable.

During the initial reopening phase, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will begin new measures and procedures in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Reopening May 28 2020

To reinforce guests’ health and safety:

  • A limited number of attractions and services will be available during this initial, reopening phase.
  • All guests will undergo a temperature screening upon arrival.
  • The Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour will not be available due to social distancing guidelines.
  • Face coverings will be required for employees and guests. Face coverings will be available for purchase at the front entrance.
  • New physical-distancing measures will be in place.
  • All guests are required to have a timed ticket, including annual passholders.
  • Advance ticket purchases are strongly encouraged to ensure entry due to limited capacity.
  • Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will continue the comprehensive and extensive availability of hand sanitizer throughout the park, as well as the increased routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces in the workplace and at workstations, countertops, doorknobs, and ticket counters.

These precautions are temporary and are subject to change at any time based on the recommendations of the CDC, State of Florida, and Brevard County. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex management continues to work closely with local, state, and federal experts to ensure that we are up to date on the situation as it evolves.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Reopening May 28 2020

Guests will also be able to purchase a space expert-led walking tour through Heroes & Legends featuring the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, the Rocket Garden, Nature and Technology, Journey to Mars: Explorers Wanted, NASA Now, Space Shuttle Atlantis®, Astronaut Training Experience®. This tour, which will be limited to small groups, costs $49.99 and includes admission and a boxed lunch.

During the initial reopening, a limited-time “Explore Today, Explore Tomorrow” package, which will include daily admission, parking and a complimentary ticket to return to the visitor complex in 2021,  will be $29.99 for adults and $24.99 for children.

The operating hours will be 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Leadership will continue to assess the situation and make adjustments to the availability of exhibits, tours, and experiences as deemed safe and appropriate. To help protect against the spread of COVID-19 and help ensure guest and employee safety, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has taken and will continue to take action to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus based on the guidance of the CDC. An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present.

Additional details are available online.

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Holidays in Space at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Christmas is Out of This World During Holidays in Space at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Annual Holiday event takes place December 14 – 30 adding an extra five days of holiday sparkle

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

The annual “Holidays in Space” celebration at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex returns with a new kinetic light show and breathtaking holiday décor.

This year’s new show begins on December 14 and happens every night through December 30 (with the exception of Christmas Day). Which means that the event will take place a full five days longer than in previous years.

Holidays in Space KSCVC 2018

The reimagined show, appropriately wrapped like a present, will feature a fanciful kinetic light presentation on the Atlantis North Lawn.

Beginning at 5 p.m. each evening, the inspired production will feature jaw-dropping surprises and a rainbow of colors and special effects second only to the planets, comets and stars in the galaxy.

“Our Holidays in Space celebration gets better and better each year and 2018 is no exception,” said Therrin Protze, chief operating officer, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. “It’s an exciting time for space exploration with the recent 60th anniversary of NASA, and the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Moon landing and our holiday season here is designed to share our pride and excitement.”

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Also new this year will be a holiday-themed kids activity area in the Atlantis West Pavilion. Families can look forward to hours of fun, with special kids’ activities offered from December 26 – 30.

If you are looking for a uniquely ‘Florida’ holiday event, you will want to look no further than Holidays in Space at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex! The event is a great way to cap off you visit to the mesmerizing attraction,

For more information or to book a visit to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, click here.

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Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Announces New Experience For 2016

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Announces New Experience For 2016

Immersive Live-Action Game Experience – Cosmic Quest – Launches at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex February 2016

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Coming in 2016, Cosmic Quest “trainees” will be challenged with immersive NASA inspired adventures, including the Asteroid Capture Adventure, which immerses trainees in “outer space” as they redirect an asteroid.

 

Future generations of space explorers will be engaged and inspired like never before as Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex introduces a new, interactive, live-action game experience – Cosmic Quest – in February 2016. Cosmic Quest promises to immerse young guests, known as “trainees,” in a variety of STEM-based (science, technology, engineering and math) space adventures while educating them about NASA’s current and future space science and exploration endeavors.

“At Cosmic Quest, kids can explore a world of STEM and space-related careers through fun and educational interactive adventures that are based on real NASA endeavors,” said Therrin Protze, chief operating officer, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. “We are proud to offer this new live-action game experience to engage young people’s imaginations and get them excited about their role in future of space exploration.”

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Cosmic Quest Rendering

Cosmic Quest will offer a host of immersive NASA-inspired adventures incorporated into existing visitor complex attractions:

  • In NASA’s Next Rocket Launch Adventure, located at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, “trainees” assemble their launch team from a pool of NASA’s best, including environmental engineers, biologists, computers scientists and other experts, each of whom will be instrumental in overcoming challenges leading up to the launch. As the rocket lifts off the pad, the trainee – safe in mission control – is immersed in the sensations of launch, including powerful vibrations and steam.
  • At Mars Colony Adventures, located at Journey To Mars: Explorers Wanted, trainees may participate in two exciting missions: building a research exploration base or building a permanent colony, both of which must be able to protect astronauts and colonists from poisonous dust and radiation on the Red Planet and keep them physically and mentally fit. During the adventures, trainees learn about the complications of living on the surface of Mars and the components needed to sustain human life. Trainees see their colony or base displayed as a 3D holograph while using a high-definition touch screen to assemble all the necessary parts.
  • Asteroid Capture Adventure, located within the IMAX® Theater, calls for trainees to command a robotic spacecraft and overcome challenges in deep space to capture and redirect an asteroid. This deep-space adventure takes place in front of a massive half-dome screen, which completely immerses trainees in “outer space” as they redirect the asteroid into the orbit of Earth’s moon.
  • Finally, the International Space Station Adventure, located within Space Shuttle AtlantisSM, challenges Cosmic Quest trainees to gather items and information to complete various experiments on the International Space Station (ISS): Humans in Space, Plant Systems in Space, Materials in Space and Closed Loop Systems. Trainees perform life-science experiments and discover what astronauts are doing on the ISS right now. Using large, interactive touch screens, they solve challenges such as countering the negative effects of microgravity on the human body and creating an efficient greenhouse to grow vegetables using aeroponics. While performing the experiments, trainees find out how space research not only will prepare humans for life on Mars, but also how it improves medicine, farming and technology here on Earth.

Robonaut, a replica of NASA’s real R2 robot currently working aboard the ISS, serves as a virtual narrator and guide as Cosmic Quest trainees use their “astronaut badges” as activation devices to interact with digital progression points and touch screens located throughout each of the exhibit areas.

Launching at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in February 2016, Cosmic Quest will be offered for $24.95, in addition to the price of daily admission. All adventures are included in the price; the completion of one adventure is not dependent on other adventures.

Space Shuttle Atlantis Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Fly With an astronaut

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, Space Shuttle AtlantisSM, Shuttle Launch Experience®, IMAX® Hubble 3D and Journey To Space films, Astronaut Encounter, Journey To Mars: Explorers Wanted, Rocket Garden and many other interactive exhibits. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at9 a.m. with closing times varying by season.  Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers annual passes starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call
877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

 

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Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: December 3, 2015 Launch Viewing

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Guests Can Enjoy Best Public Viewing of Dramatic Nighttime Atlas V Rocket Launch on December 3 at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Exclusive Viewing Options Offer a ‘Front Row Seat’ for the Launch

 

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex guests can experience the stunning sights and powerful sounds of an evening Atlas V rocket launch Thursday, Dec. 3 at 5:55 p.m. ET, with two exclusive launch viewing locations from which to choose.

The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket will carry the second Cygnus cargo mission, OA-4, to the International Space Station (ISS) in support of NASA’s Commercial Resupply Services program. This mission is utilizing the extended Cygnus Pressurized Cargo Module, transporting approximately 7,700 pounds of supplies to the ISS.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

The visitor complex will offer launch viewing from the Apollo/Saturn V Center located within the secured areas of Kennedy Space Center, as well as a viewing area at the main visitor complex.

Both locations offer thrilling viewing experiences:

  • The Apollo/Saturn V Center is located within Kennedy Space Center, and the viewing area features an open lawn and bleacher section overlooking the scenic Banana River. The area includes live launch commentary, food and retail available for purchase, and indoor restroom facilities. Guests may purchase launch transportation tickets to the Apollo/Saturn V Center for $20 plus tax in addition to admission.
  • Located at the main visitor complex, viewing adjacent to Space Shuttle AtlantisSM is included in daily admission. The viewing area offers guests a view of the rocket once it clears the tree line. Bleacher seating and live launch commentary are provided.

Buses will transport guests directly to the Apollo/Saturn V Center from 3 to 5 p.m.

Admission to the visitor complex is $50 plus tax for adults and $40 plus tax for children 3-11. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex admission tickets may be purchased at www.KennedySpaceCenter.com or by calling 877-313-2610.

Visitor complex hours on Dec. 3 are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Launch date, time and viewing locations are subject to change.

Space Shuttle Atlantis Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Fly With an astronaut

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, Space ShuttleAtlantisSM, Shuttle Launch Experience®, IMAX® Hubble 3D and Journey To Space films, Astronaut Encounter, Journey To Mars: Explorers Wanted, Rocket Garden and many other interactive exhibits. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season.  Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers multiday admission starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Holidays In Space Returns

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Holidays In Space Returns

Guests Can Celebrate ‘Holidays in Space’ at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex with

Light Show and ‘Spirit of Exploration’ Presentation

 

Looking for something new and unique to do this holiday season? Start a new tradition at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, where the holidays go high-tech with the fourth annual “Holidays in Space” celebration December 19, 2015 through January 3, 2016.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

The iconic Rocket Garden will be the site of “Spirit of Exploration,” a stunning presentation of space imagery shown on the side of the 223-foot-long Saturn 1B rocket. The presentation, which takes guests on a journey through NASA’s history and plans for the future, features custom animation blended with historic footage of actual launches and awe-inspiring views of Earth from the International Space Station.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

The “Rocket Garden Light Show” also takes place daily in the Rocket Garden, which features a majestic collection of real and replica capsules and rockets, some towering more than 100 feet into the sky.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

In addition, from Nov. 27Jan. 3 the visitor complex is adorned for the holiday season with a stunning array of decorations including a 41-foot Christmas tree, a giant NASA “meatball” ornament, garlands, lights, ribbons, bows and more.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Christmas

All holiday activities are included with visitor complex admission; no advance reservations are required. Light shows begin at dusk each day. The visitor complex is open 365 days a year, including Christmas Day, Dec. 25.

Holidays in Space Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s holiday hours of operation are:

November 25 – December 21: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

December 22-25: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

December 26-31: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Space Shuttle Atlantis Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Fly With an astronaut

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, the new Space ShuttleAtlantisSM, Shuttle Launch Experience®, IMAX® Hubble 3D and Journey To Space films, Astronaut Encounter, Journey to Mars: Explorers Wanted, Rocket Garden and many other interactive exhibits. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m.with closing times varying by season.  Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers multiday admission starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram