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U.S. Space & Rocket Center: Journey to the Stars

Explore the wonders of space at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center: rockets, artifacts, and astronaut training in Huntsville, Alabama.

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Explore the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, a Smithsonian Affiliate and the official visitor center for NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. Discover rockets, space artifacts, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of space exploration, from early rocketry to future missions.

A brief summary to U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Local tips

  • Arrive early to maximize your time, as there's a lot to see and do. Plan for at least a half-day visit.
  • Check the schedule for planetarium shows, simulator rides, and special events to make the most of your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking between exhibits.
  • Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry.
  • Take advantage of the free wheelchair and stroller rentals available at the ticket counter.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is located off I-565 at Exit 15 in Huntsville, Alabama. From I-565, follow the signs to the center. Free parking is available on-site for cars, RVs, and buses. Note that the entrance is near the A-12 Oxcart aircraft.

  • Public Transport

    Several Huntsville bus lines (1, 4, 5, 6, 10) stop near the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. The closest bus station is 'University Across From Jet Pep', which is a short walk to the center. A single bus fare within Huntsville costs around $1.25.

  • Ride Sharing

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Huntsville. A ride from downtown Huntsville to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.

Unlock the Best of U.S. Space & Rocket Center

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Discover more about U.S. Space & Rocket Center

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, stands as one of the world's largest spaceflight museums, showcasing over 1,500 artifacts related to rocketry and space exploration. Established in 1970, the center emerged from Dr. Wernher von Braun's vision to exhibit the hardware of the U.S. space program. Today, it serves as a Smithsonian Affiliate and the official visitor center for NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. The museum's collection includes iconic artifacts such as the Apollo 16 capsule and a National Historic Landmark Saturn V moon rocket, one of only three on display worldwide. Visitors can explore interactive science exhibits, Space Shuttle displays, and Army rocketry and aircraft. The INTUITIVE Planetarium offers immersive astronomy shows and theater experiences, while simulators provide a taste of astronaut training. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center also hosts Space Camp, Aviation Challenge Camp, and Robotics Camp, offering educational programs for children and adults. These camps provide hands-on experiences with simulators, lectures, and training exercises. Furthermore, the center attracts international traveling exhibits, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all. Recent additions include the 'Dare to Explore: Frontiers of Space' exhibit, showcasing current and future space exploration technologies. This exhibit highlights innovations preparing humans for missions to Mars and features models of rockets and spacecraft.

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