Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin tries out Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset during a preview of the new Destination: Mars experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Destination: Mars gives guests an opportunity to “visit” several sites on Mars using real imagery from NASA’s Curiosity Mars Rover. Based on OnSight, a tool created by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, the experience brings guests together with a holographic version of Aldrin as they are guided to Mars using the headset. Photo credit: NASA/Charles Babir
Destination Mars Grand Opening
A portrait of Sen. John Glenn and a memorial wreath stand at the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex before a ceremony remembering the iconic astronaut who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95. Glenn, one of the first seven astronauts NASA chose to fly the first missions of the Space Age, gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
Following Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy visitor complex, guests gathered to place flowers at the Space Mirror Memorial. Many of those in attendance were family members of the fallen astronauts.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
A memorial wreath stands at the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex before a ceremony remembering astronaut Sen. John Glenn, who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95. Glenn, one of the first seven astronauts NASA chose to fly the first missions of the Space Age, gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin, left and Erisa Hines of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California, try out Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset during a preview of the new Destination: Mars experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Destination: Mars gives guests an opportunity to “visit” several sites on Mars using real imagery from NASA’s Curiosity Mars Rover. Based on OnSight, a tool created by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, the experience brings guests together with a holographic version of Aldrin and Curiosity rover driver Hines as they are guided to Mars using Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset. Photo credit: NASA/Charles Babir
Destination Mars Grand Opening
In the IMAX Theater of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Cast and crew members of the upcoming motion picture "Hidden Figures" participate in a question and answer session. From the left are Pharrell Williams, musician and producer of “Hidden Figures," and Janelle Monáe, who portrays Mary Jackson in the film. The movie chronicles the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three African-American women who worked for NASA as human "computers.” Their mathematical calculations were crucial to the success of Project Mercury missions including John Glenn’s orbital flight aboard Friendship 7 in 1962. The film is due in theaters in January 2017.
Hidden Figures Tour Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana speaks at the dedication of the newest display at the entrance to the center's visitor complex. The historic countdown clock was originally set up at the space center's Press Site and was used from the launch of Apollo 12 on Nov. 14, 1969 to the final space shuttle mission, STS-135, launched on July 8, 2011. The old countdown clock was replaced in 2014 with a modern light emitting diode, or LED, display.
Countdown Clock Ribbon Cutting
In the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit facility at the Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex, a guest is briefed on work taking place in the Florida spaceport's Commercial Crew Program. This followed a presentation by center director Bob Cabana who updated community leaders on current and future activities at the space center.
Center Director's Update
Astronaut Tom Stafford listens to remarks during Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Astronaut Buzz Aldrin listens to remarks during Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Apollo launch team member John Tribe addresses guests at Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony.  Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Former astronaut Bob Cabana, director of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, speaks at the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex during a ceremony remembering astronaut Sen. John Glenn who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95. Glenn, one of the first seven astronauts NASA chose to fly the first missions of the Space Age, gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
Astronaut Charlie Duke addresses guests at Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony.  Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Former astronauts Bob Cabana, director of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, from left, Jon McBride, Al Worden and Winston Scott pose outside the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex following a ceremony remembering astronaut Sen. John Glenn, who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95. Glenn, one of the first seven astronauts NASA chose to fly the first missions of the Space Age, gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
In the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit facility at the Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex, guests get a close-up look at a plant growth experiment similar to one aboard the International Space Station. This followed a presentation by center director Bob Cabana who updated community leaders on current and future activities at the space center.
Center Director's Update
Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana addresses guests at Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony.  Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Early morning sunlight illuminates the Space Mirror Memorial at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, where a wreath-laying ceremony will take place as part of Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance. The annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
A Day of Remembrance
Following Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy visitor complex, guests gathered to place flowers at the Space Mirror Memorial. Many of those in attendance were family members of the fallen astronauts.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
An F-104 Starfighter flies above a gathering of NASA officials, family members and other invited guests following Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
A plaque inside the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex shows the name of astronaut Sen. John Glenn. Glenn, who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95, was the last surviving member of NASA's original astronaut class. He gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony - Inside Hereos and Lege
In the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit facility at the Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex, center director Bob Cabana, right, speaks with guests and employees at the Florida spaceport. This followed a presentation by center director Bob Cabana who updated community leaders on current and future activities at the space center.
Center Director's Update
Following Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy visitor complex, guests gathered to place flowers at the Space Mirror Memorial. Many of those in attendance were family members of the fallen astronauts.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin speaks to members of the news media during a preview of the new Destination: Mars experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Destination: Mars gives guests an opportunity to “visit” several sites on Mars using real imagery from NASA’s Curiosity Mars Rover. Based on OnSight, a tool created by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, the experience brings guests together with a holographic version of Aldrin as they are guided to Mars using Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset. Photo credit: NASA/Charles Babir
Destination Mars Grand Opening
A life-size photo inside the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex shows astronaut Sen. John Glenn, center, with fellow Mercury Seven astronauts Gordon Cooper, left, and Gus Grissom. Glenn, who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95. Glenn, was the last surviving member of NASA's original astronaut class. He gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony - Inside Heroes and Lege
Therrin Protze, chief operating officer of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, speaks at the dedication of the center's historic countdown clock. To the right is space center director Bob Cabana. Now located at the entrance to the visitor complex, the spaceport's historic countdown clock was used starting with the launch of Apollo 12 on Nov. 14, 1969. Originally set up at the space center's Press Site, the clock was used through the final space shuttle mission, STS-135, launched on July 8, 2011. The old countdown clock was replaced in 2014 with a modern light emitting diode, or LED, display.
Countdown Clock Ribbon Cutting
Following the Kennedy Space Center's NASA Day of Remembrance ceremony, Family members of fallen astronauts placed a wreath at the Space Mirror Memorial. The monument includes the names of the fallen astronauts from Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia, as well as the astronauts who perished in training and commercial airplane accidents are emblazoned on the monument's 45-foot-high-by-50-foot-wide polished black granite surface.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
A plaque adjacent to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex's Space Mirror Memorial includes likenesses of the fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Confetti is launched as the spaceport's historic countdown clock is dedicated as the newest display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Now located at the entrance to the visitor complex, the spaceport's historic countdown clock was used starting with the launch of Apollo 12 on Nov. 14, 1969. Originally set up at the space center's Press Site, the clock operated through the final space shuttle mission, STS-135, launched on July 8, 2011. The old countdown clock was replaced in 2014 with a modern light emitting diode, or LED, display.
Countdown Clock Ribbon Cutting
An Atlas rocket and Mercury capsule like the ones that carried Sen. John Glenn into Earth orbit in February 1962 stand in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex adjacent to the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall where Glenn was remembered during a ceremony Dec. 9, 2016. Glenn, one of the Mercury Seven astronauts NASA chose to fly the first missions of the Space Age, passed away on Dec. 8, 2016, at age 95. He gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
During the Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony, musical selections were performed by Brandon Heath, a contemporary Christian musician from Nashville, Tennessee. Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
A plaque inside the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex shows astronaut Sen. John Glenn, along with his mission insignias for Friendship 7 and STS-95, the two flights he made into space. Glenn, who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95, was the last surviving member of NASA's original astronaut class. He gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony - Inside Heroes and Lege
In the IMAX Theater of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Cast and crew members of the upcoming motion picture "Hidden Figures" participate in a question and answer session. From the left are Ted Melfi, writer and director of “Hidden Figures,” and Octavia Spencer, who portrays Dorothy Vaughan in the film. The movie is based on the book of the same title, by Margot Lee Shetterly. It chronicles the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three African-American women who worked for NASA as human "computers.” Their mathematical calculations were crucial to the success of Project Mercury missions including John Glenn’s orbital flight aboard Friendship 7 in 1962. The film is due in theaters in January 2017.
Hidden Figures Tour Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
News media members and visitors gather at the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex during a ceremony remembering astronaut Sen. John Glenn who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95. Glenn, one of the first seven astronauts NASA chose to fly the first missions of the Space Age, gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
A ceremonial ribbon is cut for the opening of new Destination: Mars experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. From the left are Therrin Protze, chief operating officer of the visitor complex, center director Bob Cabana, Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin, Kudo Tsunoda of Microsoft, and Jeff Norris of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. Destination: Mars gives guests an opportunity to “visit” several sites on Mars using real imagery from NASA’s Curiosity Mars Rover. Based on OnSight, a tool created by JPL, the experience brings guests together with a holographic version of Aldrin as they are guided to Mars using Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset. Photo credit: NASA/Charles Babir
Destination Mars Grand Opening
A wreath is placed near the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in preparation for Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. The annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
A Day of Remembrance
June Scobee Rodgers (center), widow of STS-51L commander Dick Scobee; daughter Kathie Scobee Fulgham; son U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Richard Scobee; and other family members and invited guests listen to remarks during Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
In the IMAX Theater of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Cast and crew members of the upcoming motion picture "Hidden Figures" participate in a question and answer session. From the left are Taraji P. Henson, who portrays Katherine Johnson in the film, Pharrell Williams, musician and producer of “Hidden Figures," and Janelle Monáe, who portrays Mary Jackson. The movie chronicles the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three African-American women who worked for NASA as human "computers.” Their mathematical calculations were crucial to the success of Project Mercury missions including John Glenn’s orbital flight aboard Friendship 7 in 1962. The film is due in theaters in January 2017.
Hidden Figures Tour Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
In the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit facility at the Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex, guests are briefed on work taking place in the Florida spaceport. This followed a presentation by center director Bob Cabana who updated community leaders on current and future activities at the space center.
Center Director's Update
In the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit facility at the Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex, center director Bob Cabana, in the center background, speaks to guests as he updates community leaders on current and future activities at the space center.
Center Director's Update
Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin, left and Erisa Hines of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California, speak to members of the news media during a preview of the new Destination: Mars experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Destination: Mars gives guests an opportunity to “visit” several sites on Mars using real imagery from NASA’s Curiosity Mars Rover. Based on OnSight, a tool created by JPL, the experience brings guests together with a holographic version of Aldrin and Curiosity rover driver Hines as they are guided to Mars using Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset. Photo credit: NASA/Charles Babir
Destination Mars Grand Opening
Following Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy visitor complex, a wreath was placed at the Space Mirror Memorial family members of the fallen astronauts.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
In the IMAX Theater of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Cast and crew members of the upcoming motion picture "Hidden Figures" participate in a question and answer session. The movie is based on the book of the same title, by Margot Lee Shetterly. It chronicles the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three African-American women who worked for NASA as human "computers.” Their mathematical calculations were crucial to the success of Project Mercury missions including John Glenn’s orbital flight aboard Friendship 7 in 1962. The film is due in theaters in January 2017.
Hidden Figures Tour Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
NASA Acting Administrator Robert Lightfoot addresses guests at Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Following the Kennedy Space Center's NASA Day of Remembrance ceremony, Family members of fallen astronauts placed a wreath at the Space Mirror Memorial. From the left, are Kathie Scobee Flugham, daughter of 51-L Challenger astronaut Dick Scobee, June Scobee Rodgers, Scobee's widow and State Rep. Thad Altman, president and chief executive officer of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation. They are standing in front of the memorial includes the names of the fallen astronauts from Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia, as well as the astronauts who perished in training and commercial airplane accidents are emblazoned on the monument's 45-foot-high-by-50-foot-wide polished black granite surface.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Sheryl Chaffee, daughter of Apollo 1 astronaut Roger Chaffee, addresses guests at Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin, right and Erisa Hines of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California, speak to members of the news media during a preview of the new Destination: Mars experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Destination: Mars gives guests an opportunity to “visit” several sites on Mars using real imagery from NASA’s Curiosity Mars Rover. Based on OnSight, a tool created by JPL, the experience brings guests together with a holographic version of Aldrin and Curiosity rover driver Hines as they are guided to Mars using Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset. Photo credit: NASA/Charles Babir
Destination Mars Grand Opening
Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin, left, and Kudo Tsunoda of Microsoft, speak to members of the news media during a preview of the new Destination: Mars experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Destination: Mars gives guests an opportunity to “visit” several sites on Mars using real imagery from NASA’s Curiosity Mars Rover. Based on OnSight, a tool created by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, the experience brings guests together with a holographic version of Aldrin as they are guided to Mars using Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset. Photo credit: NASA/Charles Babir
Destination Mars Grand Opening
Cast and crew members of the upcoming motion picture "Hidden Figures" participate in a question and answer session at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. From the left are Pharrell Williams, musician and producer of “Hidden Figures," Taraji P. Henson, who portrays Katherine Johnson in the film, Janelle Monáe, who portrays Mary Jackson, and Octavia Spencer, who portrays Dorothy Vaughan. They are seated in front of the original consoles of the Mercury Mission Control room with the world map that was used to follow the path of capsules between tracking stations. The movie is based on the book of the same title, by Margot Lee Shetterly. It chronicles the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three African-American women who worked for NASA as human "computers.” Their mathematical calculations were crucial to the success of Project Mercury missions including John Glenn’s orbital flight aboard Friendship 7 in 1962. The film is due in theaters in January 2017.
Hidden Figures Tour Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Former astronaut Bob Cabana, director of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, speaks at the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex during a ceremony remembering astronaut Sen. John Glenn who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95. Glenn, one of the first seven astronauts NASA chose to fly the first missions of the Space Age, gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
Family members of fallen Apollo 1 astronauts gather beside a wreath placed at the Space Mirror Memorial following Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony at the Kennedy visitor complex. From left to right are Lowell Grissom, brother of astronaut Gus Grissom; Carly Sparks, granddaughter of Grissom; Bonnie White Baer, daughter of astronaut Ed White II; and Sheryl Chaffee, daughter of Roger Chaffee.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
In the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit facility at the Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex, a guest is briefed on work taking place in the Florida spaceport's Ground Systems Development and Operations Program. This followed a presentation by center director Bob Cabana who updated community leaders on current and future activities at the space center.
Center Director's Update
NASA officials, family members and other invited guests listen to remarks during Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. From left to right are Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana; contemporary Christian musician Brandon Heath; Apollo launch team member John Tribe; Sheryl Chaffee, daughter of Apollo 1 astronaut Roger Chaffee; astronaut Michael Collins; NASA Acting Administrator Robert Lightfoot; and astronaut Charlie Duke. Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
In the IMAX Theater of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Cast and crew members of the upcoming motion picture "Hidden Figures" participate in a question and answer session. From the left are Octavia Spencer, who portrays Dorothy Vaughan in the film, Taraji P. Henson, who portrays Katherine Johnson, Janelle Monáe, who portrays Mary Jackson, Pharrell Williams, musician and producer of “Hidden Figures," Ted Melfi, writer and director of “Hidden Figures,” center director Bob Cabana, and Janet Petro, deputy center director. The movie is based on the book of the same title, by Margot Lee Shetterly. It chronicles the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three African-American women who worked for NASA as human "computers.” Their mathematical calculations were crucial to the success of Project Mercury missions including John Glenn’s orbital flight aboard Friendship 7 in 1962. The film is due in theaters in January 2017.
Hidden Figures Tour Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
In the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit facility at the Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex, center director Bob Cabana, right, speaks with Brig. Gen. Wayne Monteith, center, commander of the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing, and director of Eastern Range at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida. This followed a presentation by Cabana who updated community leaders on current and future activities at the space center.
Center Director's Update
In the IMAX Theater of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Cast and crew members of the upcoming motion picture "Hidden Figures" participate in a question and answer session. From the left are Ted Melfi, writer and director of “Hidden Figures,” Octavia Spencer, who portrays Dorothy Vaughan in the film, Taraji P. Henson, who portrays Katherine Johnson, Pharrell Williams, musician and producer of “Hidden Figures," and Janelle Monáe, who portrays Mary Jackson. The movie is based on the book of the same title, by Margot Lee Shetterly. It chronicles the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, three African-American women who worked for NASA as human "computers.” Their mathematical calculations were crucial to the success of Project Mercury missions including John Glenn’s orbital flight aboard Friendship 7 in 1962. The film is due in theaters in January 2017.
Hidden Figures Tour Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
In the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit facility at the Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex, a guest is briefed on work taking place in the Florida spaceport's Launch Services Program. This followed a presentation by center director Bob Cabana who updated community leaders on current and future activities at the space center.
Center Director's Update
Former astronaut Bob Cabana, director of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, speaks with news media members at the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex following a ceremony remembering astronaut Sen. John Glenn, who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95. Glenn, one of the first seven astronauts NASA chose to fly the first missions of the Space Age, gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin, left, and Kudo Tsunoda of Microsoft, speak to members of the news media during a preview of the new Destination: Mars experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Destination: Mars gives guests an opportunity to “visit” several sites on Mars using real imagery from NASA’s Curiosity Mars Rover. Based on OnSight, a tool created by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, the experience brings guests together with a holographic version of Aldrin as they are guided to Mars using Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset. Photo credit: NASA/Charles Babir
Destination Mars Grand Opening
Former space shuttle astronaut Jon McBride speaks at the Heroes and Legends exhibit hall at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex during a ceremony remembering astronaut Sen. John Glenn who passed away Dec. 8, 2016 at age 95. Glenn, one of the first seven astronauts NASA chose to fly the first missions of the Space Age, gained worldwide acclaim during his Mercury mission that made him the first American to orbit the Earth. He flew again in 1998 aboard space shuttle Discovery at age 77.
John H Glenn Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
Following Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy visitor complex, guests including astronauts Tom Stafford, left, and Buzz Aldrin, center, gathered to place flowers at the Space Mirror Memorial. Many of those in attendance were family members of the fallen astronauts.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Astronaut Michael Collins addresses guests at Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
Kudo Tsunoda of Microsoft, speaks to members of the news media during a preview of the new Destination: Mars experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Destination: Mars gives guests an opportunity to “visit” several sites on Mars using real imagery from NASA’s Curiosity Mars Rover. Based on OnSight, a tool created by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, the experience brings guests together with a holographic version of Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin as they are guided to Mars using Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headset. Photo credit: NASA/Charles Babir
Destination Mars Grand Opening
Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana, left, and Therrin Protze, chief operating officer of Kennedy's Visitor Complex, celebrate the dedication of the spaceport's historic countdown clock as the newest display at the center's visitor complex. Now located at the entrance to the visitor complex, the spaceport's historic countdown clock was used starting with the launch of Apollo 12 on Nov. 14, 1969. Originally set up at the space center's Press Site, the clock operated through the final space shuttle mission, STS-135, launched on July 8, 2011. The old countdown clock was replaced in 2014 with a modern light emitting diode, or LED, display.
Countdown Clock Ribbon Cutting
Therrin Protze, chief operating officer of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, left, and center director Bob Cabana watch as confetti was launched as the spaceport's historic countdown clock is dedicated as the newest display at the entrance to Kennedy's visitor complex. The spaceport's historic countdown clock was used beginning with the launch of Apollo 12 on Nov. 14, 1969. Originally set up at the space center's Press Site, the clock was used through the final space shuttle mission, STS-135, launched on July 8, 2011. The old countdown clock was replaced in 2014 with a modern light emitting diode, or LED, display.
Countdown Clock Ribbon Cutting
State Rep. Thad Altman, president and chief executive officer of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, addresses guests at Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. Held this year in the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the annual event honors the contributions of all astronauts who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.
2017 A Day of Remembrance
The newest display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is the spaceport's historic countdown clock. It is now located at the entrance to the visitor complex. The clock was set up at the space center's Press Site and used from the launch of Apollo 12 on Nov. 14, 1969 to the final space shuttle mission, STS-135, launched on July 8, 2011. The old countdown clock was replaced in 2014 with a modern light emitting diode, or LED, display.
Countdown Clock Ribbon Cutting
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. Through a partnership with Jacobs Technology, Inc., teams have constructed a bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – as an eco-friendly way to filter zinc out of rainwater runoff. Photographed on Sept. 29, 2020, at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower, the bio-filter catches water that runs off of this location’s galvanized roof, which contains a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the Indian River Lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. Through a partnership with Jacobs Technology, Inc., teams have constructed a bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – as an eco-friendly way to filter zinc out of rainwater runoff. Photographed on Sept. 29, 2020, at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower, the bio-filter catches water that runs off of this location’s galvanized roof, which contains a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the Indian River Lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. An up-close view of the plants that make up a bio-filter constructed by teams with Kennedy and Jacobs Technology, Inc. is shown on Sept. 29, 2020. The bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – is used to catch and filter zinc out of rainwater that runs off of the roof at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower. Many facilities at Kennedy have galvanized roofs, which contain a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion but can have serious effects on fish and other aquatic life if it runs into the Indian River Lagoon. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
A memorial wreath inside the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida commemorates NASA’s Day of Remembrance on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. The annual event honors the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Day of Remembrance
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. Through a partnership with Jacobs Technology, Inc., teams have constructed a bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – as an eco-friendly way to filter zinc out of rainwater runoff. Photographed on Sept. 29, 2020, at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower, the bio-filter catches water that runs off of this location’s galvanized roof, which contains a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the Indian River Lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
A member of the Brevard County Fire Rescue Honor Guard rings the bell during NASA’s Day of Remembrance ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, inside the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The annual event honors the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Day of Remembrance
NASA astronaut Raja Chari places a flower before the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida during NASA’s Day of Remembrance on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. The mirror was dedicated in 1991 to honor all astronauts who lost their lives on missions or during training. During the Day of Remembrance, NASA centers across the country honor those astronauts who have fallen in the pursuit of space exploration.
Day of Remembrance
Flowers placed before the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida commemorate NASA’s Day of Remembrance on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. The mirror was dedicated in 1991 to honor all astronauts who lost their lives on missions or during training. During the Day of Remembrance, NASA centers across the country honor those astronauts who have fallen in the pursuit of space exploration.
Day of Remembrance
Retired NASA astronaut Eileen Collins speaks during NASA’s Day of Remembrance ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, inside the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The annual event honors the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Day of Remembrance
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. Through a partnership with Jacobs Technology, Inc., teams have constructed a bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – as an eco-friendly way to filter zinc out of rainwater runoff. Photographed on Sept. 29, 2020, at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower, the bio-filter catches water that runs off of this location’s galvanized roof, which contains a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the Indian River Lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. Through a partnership with Jacobs Technology, Inc., teams have constructed a bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – as an eco-friendly way to filter zinc out of rainwater runoff. Photographed on Sept. 29, 2020, at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower, the bio-filter catches water that runs off of this location’s galvanized roof, which contains a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the Indian River Lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. Through a partnership with Jacobs Technology, Inc., teams have constructed a bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – as an eco-friendly way to filter zinc out of rainwater runoff. Photographed on Sept. 29, 2020, at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower, the bio-filter catches water that runs off of this location’s galvanized roof, which contains a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the Indian River Lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. Through a partnership with Jacobs Technology, Inc., teams have constructed a bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – as an eco-friendly way to filter zinc out of rainwater runoff. Photographed on Sept. 29, 2020, at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower, the bio-filter catches water that runs off of this location’s galvanized roof, which contains a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the Indian River Lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. An up-close view of the plants that make up a bio-filter constructed by teams with Kennedy and Jacobs Technology, Inc. is shown on Sept. 29, 2020. The bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – is used to catch and filter zinc out of rainwater that runs off of the roof at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower. Many facilities at Kennedy have galvanized roofs, which contain a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion but can have serious effects on fish and other aquatic life if it runs into the Indian River Lagoon. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
NASA Kennedy Space Center’s unrivaled dedication to the environment is highlighted through a variety of environmental programs and projects. Through a partnership with Jacobs Technology, Inc., teams have constructed a bio-filter – made of layered rock, soil, and native plants – as an eco-friendly way to filter zinc out of rainwater runoff. Photographed on Sept. 29, 2020, at the Florida spaceport’s Launch Complex 39 observation tower, the bio-filter catches water that runs off of this location’s galvanized roof, which contains a coating of zinc to help protect the metal from rust or corrosion. The plants in the bio-filter bind to the zinc so that when the water comes out of the bottom, it’s clean and safe to go into the Indian River Lagoon – its waterline located about 20 to 30 feet away.
Rainwater Biofilter
Astronauts Memorial Foundation President and CEO Thad Altman speaks during NASA’s Day of Remembrance ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, inside the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The annual event honors the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Day of Remembrance
Chirag Parikh, at left, executive secretary of the National Space Council, and Johnathan Pellish, director of civil space policy for the National Space Council, attend discussions at the Spaceport Industry Summit on June 14, 2023, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The National Spaceport Interagency Working Group was visiting Kennedy and other spaceports in the United States to collect feedback on a draft national spaceport strategy.
Spaceport Industry Summit
The Orion crew module from Exploration Flight Test 1 arrives at the entrance to NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The crew module, secured on ground support equipment atop a flatbed truck, will be delivered to the IMAX Theater where it will be prepared for display in the NASA Now exhibit. The Orion spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket Dec. 5, 2014, from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft built for humans traveled 3,604 miles above Earth and splashed down about 4.5 hours later in the Pacific Ocean.
EFT-1 Crew Module move to KSC Visitor Complex for exhibit displa
Inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Lockheed Martin workers prepare the Orion crew module from Exploration Flight Test 1 for its move to the nearby Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The crew module will be delivered to the IMAX Theater where it will be prepared for display in the NASA Now exhibit. The Orion spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket Dec. 5, 2014, from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft built for humans traveled 3,604 miles above Earth and splashed down about 4.5 hours later in the Pacific Ocean.
EFT-1 Crew Module move to KSC Visitor Complex for exhibit displa
Pam Underwood, at left, director of the Office of Spaceports for the Federal Aviation Administration, and Chirag Parikh, executive secretary of the National Space Council, attend a meeting during the Spaceport Industry Summit on June 14, 2023, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The National Spaceport Interagency Working Group was visiting Kennedy and other spaceports in the United States to collect feedback on a draft national spaceport strategy.
Spaceport Industry Summit
At the IMAX Theater at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the Orion crew module from Exploration Flight Test 1, secured on its custom-made ground support equipment, has been lowered to the ground. The crew module will be moved inside the theater where it will be prepared for display in the NASA Now exhibit. The Orion spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket Dec. 5, 2014, from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft built for humans traveled 3,604 miles above Earth and splashed down about 4.5 hours later in the Pacific Ocean.
EFT-1 Crew Module move to KSC Visitor Complex for exhibit displa
At NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the Orion crew module from Exploration Flight Test 1, secured on its custom-made ground support equipment, is moved inside the IMAX Theater. The crew module will be prepared for display in the NASA Now exhibit in the IMAX Theater. The Orion spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket Dec. 5, 2014, from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft built for humans traveled 3,604 miles above Earth and splashed down about 4.5 hours later in the Pacific Ocean.
EFT-1 Crew Module move to KSC Visitor Complex for exhibit displa
Kelvin Manning, deputy director of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, addresses attendees at the Spaceport Industry Summit on June 14, 2023, at the Florida spaceport. The National Spaceport Interagency Working Group was visiting Kennedy and other spaceports in the United Stations to collect feedback on a draft national spaceport strategy.
Spaceport Industry Summit
At NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the Orion crew module from Exploration Flight Test 1, secured on its custom-made ground support equipment, is moved inside the IMAX Theater. The crew module will be prepared for display in the NASA Now exhibit in the IMAX Theater. The Orion spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket Dec. 5, 2014, from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft built for humans traveled 3,604 miles above Earth and splashed down about 4.5 hours later in the Pacific Ocean.
EFT-1 Crew Module move to KSC Visitor Complex for exhibit displa
At NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, a crane lowers the Orion crew module from Exploration Flight Test 1 to the ground, secured on its custom-made ground support equipment. The crew module will be delivered to the IMAX Theater where it will be prepared for display in the NASA Now exhibit. The Orion spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket Dec. 5, 2014, from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft built for humans traveled 3,604 miles above Earth and splashed down about 4.5 hours later in the Pacific Ocean.
EFT-1 Crew Module move to KSC Visitor Complex for exhibit displa
The Orion crew module from Exploration Flight Test 1 is transported west along the NASA Causeway toward NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The crew module will be delivered to the IMAX Theater where it will be prepared for display in the NASA Now exhibit. The Orion spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket Dec. 5, 2014, from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft built for humans traveled 3,604 miles above Earth and splashed down about 4.5 hours later in the Pacific Ocean.
EFT-1 Crew Module move to KSC Visitor Complex for exhibit displa
At NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, a crane is attached to the Orion crew module from Exploration Flight Test 1 secured on its custom-made ground support equipment. The crew module will be delivered to the IMAX Theater where it will be prepared for display in the NASA Now exhibit. The Orion spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket Dec. 5, 2014, from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft built for humans traveled 3,604 miles above Earth and splashed down about 4.5 hours later in the Pacific Ocean.
EFT-1 Crew Module move to KSC Visitor Complex for exhibit displa
Kelvin Manning, deputy director of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, addresses attendees at the Spaceport Industry Summit on June 14, 2023, at the Florida spaceport. The National Spaceport Interagency Working Group was visiting Kennedy and other spaceports in the United Stations to collect feedback on a draft national spaceport strategy.
Spaceport Industry Summit