
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This aerial view of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex shows the rockets on display in an area known as the "Rocket Garden." Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Rocket Garden at the KSC Visitor Complex features eight authentic rockets from the past, including a Mercury-Atlas rocket. The garden also features a climb-in Mercury, Gemino and Apollo capsule replicas, seating pods and informative graphic elements.

While photographing the Supermoon on September 17, 2024 for a NASA GRC Aerospace Frontiers article on the 2024 Supermoon, a plane departing Cleveland Hopkins Airport flew right through the middle of the moon. The photographer used a portion of the rocket garden’s Ares 1 rocket and a corner of the NASA GRC hangar building to frame the photograph of the moon. When the plane was seen approaching, the photographer used continuous shutter speed in hopes of capturing the plane and the moon together

While photographing the Supermoon on September 17, 2024 for a NASA GRC Aerospace Frontiers article on the 2024 Supermoon, a plane departing Cleveland Hopkins Airport flew right through the middle of the moon. The photographer used a portion of the rocket garden’s Ares 1 rocket and a corner of the NASA GRC hangar building to frame the photograph of the moon. When the plane was seen approaching, the photographer used continuous shutter speed in hopes of capturing the plane and the moon together.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This aerial view of NASA's Kennedy Space Center shows the Headquarters Building. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Several exhibit entrances within the KSC Visitor Complex are seen: The Universe Theatre, which shows the film “Quest for Life”; Mad Mission to Mars 2025, a live-action stage show; and, in the background, the Rocket Garden, featuring eight authentic rockets from the past.

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, shown in this aerial view looking south, sprawls across 70 acres on Florida's Space Coast. It is located off State Road 405, NASA Parkway, six miles inside the Space Center entrance. SR 405 can be seen at the bottom of the photo. Just above the roadway, from left, can be seen the Shuttle/Gantry mockup, the Post Show Dome, the Astronaut Memorial, and to the far right, the Center for Space Education. Behind the Memorial are a cluster of buildings that include the Theater Complex, Cafeteria, Space Flight Exhibit Building, Souvenir Sales Building, Spaceport Central, and Ticket Pavilion. At the upper right of the site is a display of rockets that have played a significant role in the growth of the space program. Parking lots span the width of the complex on the south side.

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, shown in this aerial view looking east, sprawls across 70 acres on Florida's Space Coast. It is located off State Road 405, NASA Parkway, six miles inside the Space Center entrance. SR 405 can be seen at the top left of the photo. In the foreground is the display of rockets that have played a significant role in the growth of the space program. Just above that, left to right, can be seen the Theater Complex, Space Flight Exhibit Building and Spaceport Central. Other buildings clustered at the center are the Cafeteria, Souvenir Sales Building, and Ticket Pavilion. To the left of the Theater Complex are the Astronaut Memorial, the Post Show Dome, and the Shuttle/Gantry mockup. Not seen in the photo is the Center for Space Education.

Hong Kong police officers gather in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

Canadian police officers gather in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

Hong Kong police officers gather in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

Canadian police officers gather in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. – This aerial view shows the Rocket Garden at the KSC Visitor Complex. A hallmark of the Complex, the display features eight authentic rockets from the past and a Mercury-Atlas rocket similar to one that lalunched John Glenn into space in 1962.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An aerial view of the KSC Visitor Complex shows the Shuttle Plaza at left, with the solid rocket boosters and external tank and a model of an orbiter; the Astronaut Memorial Mirror in the center alongside the lake; and the Rocket Garden at right, center.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Four space pioneers pose for a photo in the Rocket Garden at the KSC Visitor Complex. From left are Gordon Cooper, Wally Schirra, Scott Carpenter and John Glenn Jr. The occasion was the celebration of the 40th anniversary of American spaceflight. The event was held Feb. 24, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During opening ceremonies for the 40th anniversary celebration of American spaceflight, four space pioneers stand at attention: (from left) John Glenn Jr., Scott Carpenter, Wallly Schirra and Gordon Cooper. The site is the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space pioneer John Glenn Jr. is caught in a moment of reflection under the waving U.S. flag during opening ceremonies for the 40th anniversary celebration of American spaceflight. The site is the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida provides an appropriate backfor a free screening of the film "Forbidden Planet" for NASA Kennedy Space Center employees, their families and members of the general public. The film is hosted by Turner Classic Movies, or TCM, as part of their Classic Film Festival. Participating in a panel discussion before the movie begins are, from left, Kennedy Director Robert Cabana, NASA astronaut Mike Massimino and TCM host Ben Mankiewicz. "Forbidden Planet," starring Walter Pigeon, Anne Francis and Leslie Nielsen, was nominated for an Academy Award in 1956 for best special effects in part for its robot character, Robby. Its storyline follows astronauts sent to a planet to find out why there has been no communication from the scientists working there. For more information about the Rocket Garden and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Kennedy Space Center employees, their families and members of the general public turn out in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida for a free screening of "Forbidden Planet," hosted by Turner Classic Movies, or TCM, as part of their Classic Film Festival. Participating in a panel discussion before the movie begins are, from left, Kennedy Director Robert Cabana, NASA astronaut Mike Massimino and TCM host Ben Mankiewicz. "Forbidden Planet," starring Walter Pigeon, Anne Francis and Leslie Nielsen, was nominated for an Academy Award in 1956 for best special effects in part for its robot character, Robby. Its storyline follows astronauts sent to a planet to find out why there has been no communication from the scientists working there. For more information about the Rocket Garden and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Turner Classic Movies, or TCM, brings their Classic Film Festival to NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida with a free screening of "Forbidden Planet," presented in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Participating in a panel discussion before the movie begins are, from left, Kennedy Director Robert Cabana, NASA astronaut Mike Massimino and TCM host Ben Mankiewicz. "Forbidden Planet," starring Walter Pigeon, Anne Francis and Leslie Nielsen, was nominated for an Academy Award in 1956 for best special effects in part for its robot character, Robby. Its storyline follows astronauts sent to a planet to find out why there has been no communication from the scientists working there. For more information about the Rocket Garden and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

Snowflakes are projected onto a Saturn IB rocket on display in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The rockets in the exhibit are lit in green and red for Holidays in Space 2017. The event kicked off Dec. 20 with a dazzling performance by the dance group Fighting Gravity, followed by a fireworks finale. Holidays in Space 2017 includes nightly performances from Dec. 20 through 31, excluding Dec. 25.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- An aerial view of the KSC Visitor Complex shows the Astronauts Memorial Space Mirror in the foreground. Names of the 17 American astronauts who gave their lives to the quest to explore space are engraved in the mirror-finished surface. Sunlight projecting through the names appears to emblazon them against a reflection of the sky. Behind the mirror is the Center for Space Education. In the background is the Rocket Garden, exhibiting early rockets from the space program

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An aerial view shows the entire Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. In the foreground at left are a full-size orbiter replica, the "Explorer," which allows guests to picture more clearly what it's like to live and work in space, as well as full-size, genuine solid rocket boosters and an external fuel tank (foreground, left). On the right at center is the rocket garden, which features eight authentic rockets from the past, including a Mercury-Atlas rocket similar to the one used to launch John Glenn into space in 1962 and climb-in Mercury, Gemini and Apollo capsule rep¬licas. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

The last United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket joined the lineup of historic launch vehicles in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, on March 3, 2021. The first segment was placed in its display area. The Delta II rocket was a workhorse for NASA and civilian scientists, the U.S. military, and commercial clients throughout its almost 30 years of service. Since its first launch in 1989, the Delta II has launched 154 successful missions. NASA’s Launch Services Program launched the ICESat-2 spacecraft on the final Delta II launch on Sept. 15, 2018, from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.

Guests attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony to welcome the last United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket to the lineup of historic launch vehicles in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, on March 23, 2021. The Delta II rocket was a workhorse for NASA and civilian scientists, the U.S. military, and commercial clients throughout its almost 30 years of service. Since its first launch in 1989, the Delta II has launched 154 successful missions. NASA’s Launch Services Program launched the ICESat-2 spacecraft on the final Delta II launch on Sept. 15, 2018, from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.

The last United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket joined the lineup of historic launch vehicles in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, on March 3, 2021. Workers use a crane to stack the segments of the Delta II in its display area. The Delta II rocket was a workhorse for NASA and civilian scientists, the U.S. military, and commercial clients throughout its almost 30 years of service. Since its first launch in 1989, the Delta II has launched 154 successful missions. NASA’s Launch Services Program launched the ICESat-2 spacecraft on the final Delta II launch on Sept. 15, 2018, from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.

During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the last United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket joins the lineup of historic launch vehicles in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, on March 23, 2021. The Delta II rocket was a workhorse for NASA and civilian scientists, the U.S. military, and commercial clients throughout its almost 30 years of service. Since its first launch in 1989, the Delta II has launched 154 successful missions. NASA’s Launch Services Program launched the ICESat-2 spacecraft on the final Delta II launch for the agency on Sept. 15, 2018, from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.

Guests attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the last United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket as it joins the lineup of historic launch vehicles in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, on March 23, 2021. The Delta II rocket was a workhorse for NASA and civilian scientists, the U.S. military, and commercial clients throughout its almost 30 years of service. Since its first launch in 1989, the Delta II has launched 154 successful missions. NASA’s Launch Services Program launched the ICESat-2 spacecraft on the final Delta II launch on Sept. 15, 2018, from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.

The last United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket joined the lineup of historic launch vehicles in the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, on March 3, 2021. Workers use a crane to stack the segments of the Delta II in its display area. The Delta II rocket was a workhorse for NASA and civilian scientists, the U.S. military, and commercial clients throughout its almost 30 years of service. Since its first launch in 1989, the Delta II has launched 154 successful missions. NASA’s Launch Services Program launched the ICESat-2 spacecraft on the final Delta II launch on Sept. 15, 2018, from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- This aerial view of the KSC Visitor Complex shows many of the buildings and exhibits, such as the full-scale solid rocket boosters and external tank in the foreground, a full-scale model of a Space Shuttle orbiter behind them, the Launch Status Dome to the right, and the Astronauts Memorial Space Mirror next to the retention pond. Names of the 17 American astronauts who gave their lives to the quest to explore space are engraved in the mirror-finished surface of this memorial exhibit. Sunlight projecting through the names appears to emblazon them against a reflection of the sky. To the left of the mirror is the Center for Space Education. In the background is the Rocket Garden, exhibiting early rockets from the space program

Members of KSC’s Native America International Tribal Council and the Space Coast Indian Association (Brevard County) gather in the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, 110 people, representing 36 countries, celebrate becoming American citizens during a naturalization ceremony. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services administered the oath in the complex's Rocket Garden in honor of the upcoming Independence Day holiday. This was the first naturalization ceremony hosted by a NASA facility. An estimated 3,800 candidates will become citizens at 55 special ceremonies, including the one at Kennedy, held across the country and around the world July 1-6. Photo Credit: NASA_Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Chickasaw Indian princesses "sign" the Lord's Prayer during a Native American Ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. The princesses are Crystal Underwood, Julie Underwood and Tamela Alexander. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

An international gathering of police officers march in a parade at the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony includes parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After opening ceremonies for the 40th anniversary celebration of American spaceflight, space pioneer John Glenn Jr., who made that historic flight orbiting the Earth, signs a commemorative painting. The site is the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. Other Mercury astronauts who attended the celebration were Scott Carpenter, Gordon Cooper and Wally Schirra. The event was capped with a dinner held at the KSC Apollo_Saturn V Center.

During opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games, astronaut Sam Durrance addresses an audience of 1,850 participants and their families. Held in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden, the ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

An international gathering of police officers march in a parade at the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony includes parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Thousands of space shuttle workers and their families gather near the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida for the “We Made History! Shuttle Program Celebration” on Aug. 13. The event was held to honor current and former workers’ dedication to NASA’s Space Shuttle Program and to celebrate 30 years of space shuttle achievements. The event featured food, music, entertainment, astronaut appearances, educational activities, giveaways, and Starfire Night Skyshow. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

A crowd of police officers and their families attend opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. Held in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden, the ceremony hosted more than 1,850 participants and their families for events that included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

A crowd of police officers and their families cheer a presentation of flags during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. Held in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden, the ceremony hosted more than 1,850 participants and their families for events that included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

British police officers carry their country’s flag while marching in a parade at the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At opening ceremonies of the celebration of the 40th anniversary of American spaceflight, space pioneer John Glenn Jr. addresses attendees in the Rocket Garden of the KSC Visitor Complex. Behind him on the stage are (left to right) Scott Carpenter, Wally Schirra and Gordon Cooper; at right is WESH-TV (NBC) newsman Dan Billow, who served as emcee

During opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games, astronaut Sam Durrance addresses an audience of 1,850 participants and their families. Held in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden, the ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, the "rocket garden" includes many of the historic launch vehicles of the United States' efforts to explore space. The new $100 million facility includes interactive exhibits that tell the story of the 30-year Space Shuttle Program and highlight the future of space exploration. The "Space Shuttle Atlantis" exhibit formally opened to the public on June 29, 2013.Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

U.S. Police officers join the KSC Space Man in a parade at the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony includes parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Chickasaw Indian princesses "sign" the Lord's Prayer during a Native American Ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. The princesses are Crystal Underwood, Julie Underwood and Tamela Alexander. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

The Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida is festively decorated and lit in green and red for Holidays in Space 2017. The event kicked off Dec. 20 with a dazzling performance by the dance group Fighting Gravity, followed by a fireworks finale. Holidays in Space 2017 includes nightly performances from Dec. 20 through 31, excluding Dec. 25.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Chickasaw Dance Troupe performs an Honor Dance for John Herrington's parents during the Native American Ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Chickasaw Dance troupe member Tim Harjo (second from left) leads Joyce and James Herrington in a dance honoring their son, STS-113 Mission Specialist John Herrington. The dance was part of a Native American ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex commemorating Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission.

Children representing the Brevard Police Athletic League carry the U.S. Flag as they march in a parade at the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

Launch vehicles used by NASA in its history of exploring space are displayed in the "Rocket Garden" adjacent to the new Heroes and Legends attraction at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The new facility includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and looks back to the pioneering efforts of Mercury, Gemini and Apollo. It sets the stage by providing the background and context for space exploration and the legendary men and women who pioneered the nation's journey into space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Singer Buffy Sainte-Marie sings during a pre-launch Native American ceremony in the Rocket Garden of the KSC Visitor Complex. She herself is a Cree. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

Launch vehicles used by NASA in its history of exploring space are displayed in the "Rocket Garden" adjacent to the new Heroes and Legends attraction at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The new facility includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and looks back to the pioneering efforts of Mercury, Gemini and Apollo. It sets the stage by providing the background and context for space exploration and the legendary men and women who pioneered the nation's journey into space.

Entrance to the Heroes and Legends attraction at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is by way of a sweeping ramp designed to simulate a journey to the stars by way of the "Rocket Garden." The new facility includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and looks back to the pioneering efforts of Mercury, Gemini and Apollo. It sets the stage by providing the background and context for space exploration and the legendary men and women who pioneered the nation's journey into space.

The Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida is visible through an ornament-shaped doorway set up for Holidays in Space 2017. The event kicked off Dec. 20 with a dazzling performance by the dance group Fighting Gravity, followed by a fireworks finale. Holidays in Space 2017 includes nightly performances from Dec. 20 through 31, excluding Dec. 25.

Members of KSC’s Native America International Tribal Council and the Space Coast Indian Association (Brevard County) gather in the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

A crowd of police officers and their families attend opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. Held in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden, the ceremony hosted more than 1,850 participants and their families for events that included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

Launch vehicles used by NASA in its history of exploring space are displayed in the "Rocket Garden" adjacent to the new Heroes and Legends attraction at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The new facility includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and looks back to the pioneering efforts of Mercury, Gemini and Apollo. It sets the stage by providing the background and context for space exploration and the legendary men and women who pioneered the nation's journey into space.

A crowd of police officers and their families cheer a presentation of flags during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. Held in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden, the ceremony hosted more than 1,850 participants and their families for events that included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Chickasaw Tribal Elder Lee Frazier leads the dedication to the astronauts of STS-113 during the Native American Ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

U.S. Police officers join the KSC Space Man in a parade at the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony includes parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Thousands of space shuttle workers and their families gather near the Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida for the “We Made History! Shuttle Program Celebration” on Aug. 13. The event was held to honor current and former workers’ dedication to NASA’s Space Shuttle Program and to celebrate 30 years of space shuttle achievements. The event featured food, music, entertainment, astronaut appearances, educational activities, giveaways, and Starfire Night Skyshow. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

Entrance to the Heroes and Legends attraction at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is by way of a sweeping ramp designed to simulate a journey to the stars by way of the "Rocket Garden." The new facility includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and looks back to the pioneering efforts of Mercury, Gemini and Apollo. It sets the stage by providing the background and context for space exploration and the legendary men and women who pioneered the nation's journey into space.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Chickasaw Dance Troupe performs an Honor Dance during the Native American Ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

The Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida is festively decorated and lit in green and red for Holidays in Space 2017. The event kicked off Dec. 20 with a dazzling performance by the dance group Fighting Gravity, followed by a fireworks finale. Holidays in Space 2017 includes nightly performances from Dec. 20 through 31, excluding Dec. 25.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Chickasaw Indian princesses seen here contributed to a pre-launch Native American ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex by leading a prayer. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Singer Buffy Sainte-Marie sings during a pre-launch Native American ceremony in the Rocket Garden of the KSC Visitor Complex. She herself is a Cree. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

Children representing the Brevard Police Athletic League carry the U.S. Flag as they march in a parade at the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Chickasaw Dance Troupe performs an Honor Dance during the Native American Ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

British police officers carry their country’s flag while marching in a parade at the KSC Visitor Complex during opening ceremonies of the 2000 International Law Enforcement Games. More than 1,850 participants and their families took part in the opening, held in the Rocket Garden. The ceremony included parades, torch lighting and a tug of war. The games feature officers from 15 countries and 37 United States in competitions around Brevard County, Fla

The Rocket Garden and fountain at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida are lit in green and red for Holidays in Space 2017. The event kicked off Dec. 20 with a dazzling performance by the dance group Fighting Gravity, followed by a fireworks finale. Holidays in Space 2017 includes nightly performances from Dec. 20 through 31, excluding Dec. 25.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This commemorative painting was presented during opening ceremonies for the 40th anniversary celebration of American spaceflight, It was signed by four of the space pioneers being honored: Wally Schirra, Gordon Cooper, John Glenn Jr. and Scott Carpenter. The ceremonies were held in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden. The event was capped with a dinner held at the KSC Apollo/Saturn V Center

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Chickasaw Indian princesses pose with folk singer Buffy Saint- Marie (center) during a Native American ceremony held in the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. Several days of activities were held at KSC and in Orlando commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Six-year-old Connor Johnson, right, discusses his interest in the space program with NASA Kennedy Space Center Director and former astronaut Robert Cabana during a ceremony in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex' Rocket Garden. During the ceremony, Cabana will present Connor with mementos to inspire the youngster to continue the dream he has had since the age of three of becoming an astronaut. Connor, of Denver, Colo., gained national attention for having the "right stuff" when he launched an online petition on the White House website in December 2013 to save NASA’s funding from budget cuts. One of the mementos, a piece of space history, was a bolt used to hold the International Space Station's Unity module in place in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay on the STS-88 mission, the first station assembly mission and Cabana's fourth and final spaceflight. Connor and his family were the guests of Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, the concessionaire managing the visitor complex. During his visit, Connor had the opportunity to meet with astronauts, see space vehicles and witness the Robot Rocket Rally underway in the complex' Rocket Garden over the weekend. To learn more about the educational activities available daily at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Kennedy Space Center Director and former astronaut Robert Cabana, left, presents a space-program memento to six-year-old Connor Johnson in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex' Rocket Garden to inspire the youngster to continue the dream he has had since the age of three of becoming an astronaut. Connor, of Denver, Colo., gained national attention for having the "right stuff" when he launched an online petition on the White House website in December 2013 to save NASA’s funding from budget cuts. One of the mementos, a piece of space history, was a bolt used to hold the International Space Station's Unity module in place in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay on the STS-88 mission, the first station assembly mission and Cabana's fourth and final spaceflight. Connor and his family were the guests of Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, the concessionaire managing the visitor complex. During his visit, Connor had the opportunity to meet with astronauts, see space vehicles and witness the Robot Rocket Rally underway in the complex' Rocket Garden over the weekend. To learn more about the educational activities available daily at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Six-year-old Connor Johnson gives a big thumbs up following a ceremony in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex' Rocket Garden in which NASA Kennedy Space Center Director and former astronaut Robert Cabana presented him with mementos to inspire the youngster to continue the dream he has had since the age of three of becoming an astronaut. From left are Connor's brother Liam, Cabana and Connor. Connor, of Denver, Colo., gained national attention for having the "right stuff" when he launched an online petition on the White House website in December 2013 to save NASA’s funding from budget cuts. One of the mementos, a piece of space history, was a bolt used to hold the International Space Station's Unity module in place in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay on the STS-88 mission, the first station assembly mission and Cabana's fourth and final spaceflight. Connor and his family were the guests of Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, the concessionaire managing the visitor complex. During his visit, Connor had the opportunity to meet with astronauts, see space vehicles and witness the Robot Rocket Rally underway in the complex' Rocket Garden over the weekend. To learn more about the educational activities available daily at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Six-year-old Connor Johnson examines one of the space mementos presented to him by Kennedy Space Center Director and former astronaut Robert Cabana to inspire the youngster to continue the dream he has had since the age of three of becoming an astronaut, following a ceremony in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex' Rocket Garden. Connor, of Denver, Colo., gained national attention for having the "right stuff" when he launched an online petition on the White House website in December 2013 to save NASA’s funding from budget cuts. One of the mementos, a piece of space history, was a bolt used to hold the International Space Station's Unity module in place in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay on the STS-88 mission, the first station assembly mission and Cabana's fourth and final spaceflight. Connor and his family were the guests of Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, the concessionaire managing the visitor complex. During his visit, Connor had the opportunity to meet with astronauts, see space vehicles and witness the Robot Rocket Rally underway in the complex' Rocket Garden over the weekend. To learn more about the educational activities available daily at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Kennedy Space Center Director and former astronaut Robert Cabana, left, presents a space patch and other mementos to six-year-old Connor Johnson at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex' Rocket Garden to inspire the youngster to continue the dream he has had since the age of three of becoming an astronaut. Connor, of Denver, Colo., gained national attention for having the "right stuff" when he launched an online petition on the White House website in December 2013 to save NASA’s funding from budget cuts. One of the mementos, a piece of space history, was a bolt used to hold the International Space Station's Unity module in place in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay on the STS-88 mission, the first station assembly mission and Cabana's fourth and final spaceflight. Connor and his family were the guests of Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, the concessionaire managing the visitor complex. During his visit, Connor had the opportunity to meet with astronauts, see space vehicles and witness the Robot Rocket Rally underway in the complex' Rocket Garden over the weekend. To learn more about the educational activities available daily at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Six-year-old Connor Johnson, right, show his delight at being presented with space mementos to inspire the youngster to continue the dream he has had since the age of three of becoming an astronaut, by NASA Kennedy Space Center Director and former astronaut Robert Cabana in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex' Rocket Garden. Connor, of Denver, Colo., gained national attention for having the "right stuff" when he launched an online petition on the White House website in December 2013 to save NASA’s funding from budget cuts. One of the mementos, a piece of space history, was a bolt used to hold the International Space Station's Unity module in place in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay on the STS-88 mission, the first station assembly mission and Cabana's fourth and final spaceflight. Connor and his family were the guests of Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, the concessionaire managing the visitor complex. During his visit, Connor had the opportunity to meet with astronauts, see space vehicles and witness the Robot Rocket Rally underway in the complex' Rocket Garden over the weekend. To learn more about the educational activities available daily at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Six-year-old Connor Johnson shows off space mementos presented to him by Kennedy Space Center Director and former astronaut Robert Cabana to inspire the youngster to continue the dream he has had since the age of three of becoming an astronaut, following a ceremony in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex' Rocket Garden. From left are Connor's brother Liam, Cabana and Connor. Connor, of Denver, Colo., gained national attention for having the "right stuff" when he launched an online petition on the White House website in December 2013 to save NASA’s funding from budget cuts. One of the mementos, a piece of space history, was a bolt used to hold the International Space Station's Unity module in place in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay on the STS-88 mission, the first station assembly mission and Cabana's fourth and final spaceflight. Connor and his family were the guests of Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, the concessionaire managing the visitor complex. During his visit, Connor had the opportunity to meet with astronauts, see space vehicles and witness the Robot Rocket Rally underway in the complex' Rocket Garden over the weekend. To learn more about the educational activities available daily at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Kennedy Space Center Director and former astronaut Robert Cabana, left, discusses the future of the space program with six-year-old Connor Johnson during a ceremony in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex' Rocket Garden. During the ceremony, Cabana will present Connor with mementos to inspire the youngster to continue the dream he has had since the age of three of becoming an astronaut. Connor, of Denver, Colo., gained national attention for having the "right stuff" when he launched an online petition on the White House website in December 2013 to save NASA’s funding from budget cuts. One of the mementos, a piece of space history, was a bolt used to hold the International Space Station's Unity module in place in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay on the STS-88 mission, the first station assembly mission and Cabana's fourth and final spaceflight. Connor and his family were the guests of Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts, the concessionaire managing the visitor complex. During his visit, Connor had the opportunity to meet with astronauts, see space vehicles and witness the Robot Rocket Rally underway in the complex' Rocket Garden over the weekend. To learn more about the educational activities available daily at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visit http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com. Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Four space pioneers gather on stage with Rick Abramson, president of Delaware North Parks Services of Spaceport, Inc., during opening ceremonies for the 40th anniversary celebration of American spaceflight. The former astronauts had just signed a commemorative painting of the first Mercury rocket launch to send John Glenn Jr. orbiting the Earth. From left are Wally Schirra, Gordon Cooper, Abramson, Glenn and Scott Carpenter. The site is the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. The event was capped with a dinner held at the KSC Apollo/Saturn V Center

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.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During opening ceremonies for the 40th anniversary celebration of American spaceflight, Rick Abramson, president of Delaware North Parks Services of Spaceport, Inc., waves to the spectators. Behind him are four of the space pioneers being honored: (from left) Wally Schirra, Gordon Cooper, John Glenn Jr. and Scott Carpenter. Next to Carpenter stands a commemorative painting of a Mercury rocket launch that the four signed. The ceremonies were held in the KSC Visitor Complex Rocket Garden. The event was capped with a dinner held at the KSC Apollo/Saturn V Center

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, features real and mock-up rockets from NASA’s Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs, as well as others from uncrewed missions. The large rocket positioned horizontally at far right is an Apollo Saturn 1B, while the rocket standing at far left is a Gemini Titan launch vehicle. The visitor complex is managed for NASA by Delaware North Companies Parks and Resorts. The complex features interactive displays, astronaut encounters, IMAX movies and attractions that help to tell the story of U.S. space exploration. It is home to the recently-opened Angry Birds Space attraction and the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit that will open to the general public this summer. Photo credit: NASA_Charisse Nahser

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, features real and mock-up rockets from NASA’s Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs, as well as others from uncrewed missions. The large rocket positioned horizontally at far right is an Apollo Saturn 1B, while the rocket standing at far left is a Gemini Titan launch vehicle. The visitor complex is managed for NASA by Delaware North Companies Parks and Resorts. The complex features interactive displays, astronaut encounters, IMAX movies and attractions that help to tell the story of U.S. space exploration. It is home to the recently-opened Angry Birds Space attraction and the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit that will open to the general public this summer. Photo credit: NASA_Charisse Nahser

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Chiefs of Diplomatic Missions from more than 45 countries gather in the Rocket Garden at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The visit, one of the largest tours undertaken by the diplomatic corps, is part of the State Department's new Experience America program. The international dignitaries were provided an overview of the United States' space exploration programs and NASA's international cooperation in pursuit of exploration and scientific discovery. They visited various locations at Kennedy, including the Space Station Processing Facility and Launch Pad 39A where space shuttle Atlantis is being prepared for its upcoming mission to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, 110 people from 36 countries wave their American flags after taking the Oath of Allegiance to become American citizens. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' Acting Southeast Regional Director Rosemary Langley Melville administered the oath in the complex's Rocket Garden in honor of the upcoming Independence Day holiday. This was the first naturalization ceremony hosted by a NASA facility. An estimated 3,800 candidates will become citizens at 55 special ceremonies, including the one at Kennedy, held across the country and around the world July 1-6. Photo Credit: NASA_Jim Grossmann

Retired NASA astronaut Bob Springer, center, takes a photograph with top scholars from Brevard County high schools near the Rocket Garden at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, on Nov. 7, 2018. The high school seniors were invited to Kennedy Space Center for a tour of facilities, lunch and a roundtable discussion with engineers, scientists and business experts at the center. The 2018 Brevard Top Scholars event was hosted by the center's Academic Engagement Office to honor the top three scholars of the 2018-2019 graduating student class from each of Brevard County’s public high schools. The students received a personalized certificate of recognition at the end of the day.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Cheryl Hurst, NASA Kennedy Space Center's director of External Relations and Education, addresses students and teachers involved with the NASA OPTIMUS PRIME Spinoff Video Contest in the Rocket Garden of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The contest challenged students in grades three through 12 to study NASA spinoff technologies and produce short, creative videos promoting their favorites. The NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Innovative Partnerships Office in Greenbelt, Md., designed the contest to help students see the benefits of NASA technology here on Earth. NASA collaborated with Hasbro in using the OPTIMUS PRIME character. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Country music singer Ansel Brown, performs his song "When You Fly" for students and teachers involved with the NASA OPTIMUS PRIME Spinoff Video Contest in the Rocket Garden of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The contest challenged students in grades three through 12 to study NASA spinoff technologies and produce short, creative videos promoting their favorites. The NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Innovative Partnerships Office in Greenbelt, Md., designed the contest to help students see the benefits of NASA technology here on Earth. NASA collaborated with Hasbro in using the OPTIMUS PRIME character. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Peter Cullen, the voice of OPTIMUS PRIME from the "Transformers" franchise, addresses students and teachers involved with the NASA OPTIMUS PRIME Spinoff Video Contest in the Rocket Garden of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The contest challenged students in grades three through 12 to study NASA spinoff technologies and produce short, creative videos promoting their favorites. The NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Innovative Partnerships Office in Greenbelt, Md., designed the contest to help students see the benefits of NASA technology here on Earth. NASA collaborated with Hasbro in using the OPTIMUS PRIME character. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Winners of the NASA OPTIMUS PRIME Spinoff Video Contest gather with their awards in the Rocket Garden of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The contest challenged students in grades three through 12 to study NASA spinoff technologies and produce short, creative videos promoting their favorites. The NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Innovative Partnerships Office in Greenbelt, Md., designed the contest to help students see the benefits of NASA technology here on Earth. NASA collaborated with Hasbro in using the OPTIMUS PRIME character. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Brevard County sixth-graders participate in the eighth annual Space Week at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Here, the students climb into a Mercury capsule in the complex's Rocket Garden. About 5,000 students will participate throughout the 11-day event, which contains fun space exploration activities designed to emphasize the importance of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Space Week is sponsored by NASA Education, Brevard Public Schools, Delaware North Companies Parks and Resorts, and the Florida Chapter of the National Space Club. Photo Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA astronauts, Wendy Lawrence, left, and Jon McBride address students and teachers involved with the NASA OPTIMUS PRIME Spinoff Video Contest in the Rocket Garden of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The contest challenged students in grades three through 12 to study NASA spinoff technologies and produce short, creative videos promoting their favorites. The NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Innovative Partnerships Office in Greenbelt, Md., designed the contest to help students see the benefits of NASA technology here on Earth. NASA collaborated with Hasbro in using the OPTIMUS PRIME character. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- With the Rocket Garden for a backdrop, five shuttle flags hang above the main stage at NASA Kennedy Space Center’s “We Made History! Shuttle Program Celebration,” Aug. 13, at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Fla. The event was held to honor current and former shuttle workers’ dedication to NASA’s Space Shuttle Program and to celebrate 30 years of space shuttle achievements. The event featured food, music, entertainment, astronaut appearances, educational activities, giveaways, and Starfire Night Skyshow. Photo credit: Gianni Woods

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Darryl Mitchell, NASA's project manager for the NASA OPTIMUS PRIME Spinoff Video Contest, addresses students and teachers in the Rocket Garden of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The contest challenged students in grades three through 12 to study NASA spinoff technologies and produce short, creative videos promoting their favorites. The NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Innovative Partnerships Office in Greenbelt, Md., designed the contest to help students see the benefits of NASA technology here on Earth. NASA collaborated with Hasbro in using the OPTIMUS PRIME character. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Top scholars from Brevard County high schools gather near the Rocket Garden at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, on Nov. 7, 2018. The high school seniors were invited to Kennedy Space Center for a tour of facilities, lunch and a roundtable discussion with engineers, scientists and business experts at the center. The 2018 Brevard Top Scholars event was hosted by the center's Academic Engagement Office to honor the top three scholars of the 2018-2019 graduating student class from each of Brevard County’s public high schools. The students received a personalized certificate of recognition at the end of the day.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Rocket Garden at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, a United States Postal Service poster reveals the two new stamps that commemorate the 50th anniversary of human spaceflight. One stamp commemorates NASA's Project Mercury and Alan Shepard's historic launch on May 5, 1961, aboard the spacecraft Freedom 7. The second stamp honors NASA's MESSENGER, which reached Mercury in March to become the first spacecraft to orbit the planet. The two missions frame a remarkable 50-year period in which America advanced space exploration through more than 1,500 crewed and uncrewed flights. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seminole Native American Veterans serve as color guard during a pre-launch Native American ceremony at the Rocket Garden in the KSC Visitor Complex. David Nunez, U.S. Navy, carries the State of Florida Flag; David Stephen Bowers, U.S. Army, carries the Flag of the United States of America; Charles Billie Hiers, U.S. Marine Corps., carries the Seminole Tribe of Florida Flag. The ceremony was part of several days' activities commemorating John B. Herrington as the first tribally enrolled Native American astronaut to fly on a Shuttle mission. Herrington is a Mission Specialist on STS-113.