Huntsville—U.S. Space and Rocket Center

If I had the chance to pick another profession, astronaut would be at the top of the list. Maybe because I grew up in Houston and lived near the Space Center. Maybe because visiting outer space would be the ultimate travel destination. What I do know for sure is this blog entry could spin out of control if I don’t reel it in. I love space!

My first memory of space began on a field trip to Space Center Houston. Back in the day, the field trip consisted of hundreds of kids sitting in an auditorium listening to “real” astronauts talk about space. I watched one kid of hundreds walk on stage and model the 100 pound spacesuit for the rest of us. I was mesmerized by the process and hoped to become an astronaut one day.

Later, in late 1985/early 1986, I remember feeling a little jealous I wasn’t older. A civilian—teacher—was chosen out of thousands of applicants to travel into space with the goal of sharing experiments with her students. If only I were older, maybe I could have competed and won that spot.

As many of you remember, Christa McAuliffe never made it into space. Less than two minutes after take off on January 28, 1986 America witnessed one of the worst tragedies in space flight history. The Space Shuttle Challenger exploded, killing all members of the mission. I was deeply affected by the loss, but my love for space never diminished.

Eventually, Houston’s Visitor Center became state of the art, and I visited again. Someone told me Disney Imagineers and architects made it what it is today. I can’t verify that. However, I witnessed the Control Center, toured a space shuttle, took a tour of the swimming pool where mock ups of spacecrafts were sunk and astronauts were counterbalanced with weights to feel weightless. I soaked in everything from the multiple visits I had and continually renewed my love of space.

When deciding which troll I should visit (see next post), I knew Huntsville, Alabama had my top vote. For years I heard about people going to Space Camp there, and if I couldn’t participate, I’d at least want to see it.

I left Kansas City and arrived early in Huntsville. The doors opened at 10:00 am, so I committed to seeing the U.S. Space and Rocket Center first thing. I would arrive prior to its opening, but that was fine. I didn’t factor in that there would already be a line waiting for its 10 am opening.

The wait seemed short. In fact, I waited less than ten minutes once the doors opened. All guests wove themselves through the souvenir shop then passed through a security station. My multi attraction pass covered general admission, and I had no trouble gaining access to the facility.

The first exploratory area provided window displays of games and toys from the time space caught the attention of young children. Many items predated me.

Then, the building opened to a large, open room. Each display granted me self-discovery. I watched how scientists test bugs for protein packed food 🤢. Their weight and size inspire potential bug farms for those future Mars residents.

Another display discussed potential habitats on both Mars and the moon, and yet another discussed the power of 3-D printers. Even now, these innovative machines build tools needed to function in space.

Seeing the many variations of spacesuits intrigued me. I remembered the 100 pound suit from my youth, and now the continued research and development have created slimmed down, sleek suits. (I failed to take a picture of the newer ones.)

Many space vehicles filled the room, and, like Houston, displays showcasing daily life in space filled my mind with wonder. Toilets that use suction and food trays that use Velcro, seem to have continued similarly as to those from years ago.

The main room was filled with so many fabulous structures that an overwhelming feeling took over. I know I missed so many fascinating facts while still learning new things.

I did watch some children attempt to fix a spacecraft. I’m not sure if they purchased one of the additional excursions, but I’d have loved the experience as a kid.

One part of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center I also enjoyed included information about weather. Many studies in space have helped us understand and track weather better. A cloud making station and a tornado experience helped guests see practical reasons space exploration is vital to our survival.

The facility also provided outdoor spaces for even larger displays. Space Shuttle Park presented the Space Shuttle Pathfinder. Whereas, Houston Space Center offers indoor tours, USSRC (U.S. Space and Rocket Center) simply allows visual inspections of the exterior parts. The size still overwhelms.

Continuing along the route, I entered additional space and military artifacts. Rockets, helicopters, mock ups of the moon landing, and rides (additional cost) filled the outdoor grounds. This area was aptly named Rocket Park.

My final visit took me to Saturn V Hall. Once an outdoor venue, the deteriorating rocket needed a covered building. Thankfully money was raised to provide protection for Saturn V. In addition, an amphitheater and dining area filled the space, allowing for fundraising galas. I think they were preparing for one of those that night.

My visit to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center checked several bucket list items. I think my next goal will be Cape Canaveral in Florida. Though I thoroughly enjoyed my time here, if you had to choose between Houston and Huntsville, Houston would get my vote. It might be due to my Texas roots, but I loved seeing the way the Space Center fit perfectly in the Texas landscape. And, well, everything is bigger in Texas!