Silhouetted against the cloud-strewn sky over NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D aircraft displays its prowess. The pilot is Maj. Tad Clark, who, after landing at the Shuttle Landing Facility, announced that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11, featuring an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend. The Expo will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration.

Look -- It's a bird and a plane! A U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D aircraft streaks through the sky past a slower-flying stork over the NASA News Center. The pilot is Maj. Tad Clark, who, after landing at the Shuttle Landing Facility, announced that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11, featuring an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend. The Expo will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration.

The United States Air Force Thunderbirds flying over NASA Langley Research Center while practicing for an air show at Langley Air Force Base Virginia.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly over NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, during the second phase of its winter training in February 2025 to prepare for the upcoming air show season. The Thunderbirds perform all over the world in F-16 Fighting Falcons, a multi-role fighter jet.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly over NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, during the second phase of its winter training in February 2025 to prepare for the upcoming air show season. The Thunderbirds perform all over the world in F-16 Fighting Falcons, a multi-role fighter jet.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly over NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, during the second phase of its winter training in February 2025 to prepare for the upcoming air show season. The Thunderbirds perform all over the world in F-16 Fighting Falcons, a multi-role fighter jet.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly over NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, during the second phase of its winter training in February 2025 to prepare for the upcoming air show season. The Thunderbirds perform all over the world in F-16 Fighting Falcons, a multi-role fighter jet.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly over NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, during the second phase of its winter training in February 2025 to prepare for the upcoming air show season. The Thunderbirds perform all over the world in F-16 Fighting Falcons, a multi-role fighter jet.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds show their precision formation as they fly over Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are taking part in the prerace festivities at the Daytona International Speedway for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds show their precision formation as they fly over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are taking part in the prerace festivities at the Daytona International Speedway for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds show their precision formation as they fly over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They are taking part in the prerace festivities at the Daytona International Speedway for the 53rd running of the Daytona 500. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

This non-circular pit seen in this image from NASA Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter is due to a low angle impact from an asteroid or comet. The raised plateau west of the crater was where most of the impact debris landed.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16 jets fly in formation above the Industrial Area of Kennedy Space Center. The purpose of the flyover was to photograph the area for promotional purposes. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11, featuring an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend. The Expo will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D pilot, Maj. Tad Clark, has arrived at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility to announce to waiting media that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16 jets fly in formation past the Vehicle Assembly Building in the Industrial Area of Kennedy Space Center. The purpose of the flyover was to photograph the planes at KSC for promotional purposes. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11, featuring an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend. The Expo will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: U.S. Air Force photograph by TSgt Justin D. Pyle

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D aircraft approaches the runway at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility. The pilot is Maj. Tad Clark, who announced to waiting media that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16 jets fly in formation past the Vehicle Assembly Building in the Industrial Area of Kennedy Space Center. The purpose of the flyover was to photograph the planes at KSC for promotional purposes. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11, featuring an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend. The Expo will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: U.S. Air Force photograph by TSgt Justin D. Pyle

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D aircraft taxis down the runway at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility. The pilot is Maj. Tad Clark, who announced to waiting media that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D aircraft streaks through the sky over NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The pilot is Major Tad Clark, who, after landing at the Shuttle Landing Facility, announced that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Maj. Tad Clark, pilot of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D (background), announces to waiting media that the KSC Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D aircraft comes to a stop at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility. The pilot is Maj. Tad Clark, who announced to waiting media that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16 jets fly in formation above the Industrial Area of Kennedy Space Center. The purpose of the flyover was to photograph the area for promotional purposes. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11, featuring an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend. The Expo will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D aircraft rolls to a stop at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility. The pilot is Maj. Tad Clark, who announced to waiting media that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — On stage for the World Space Expo's Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum are Ret. Colonel Eileen Collins, the first female shuttle commander; Dr. Kathryn D. Sullivan, the first American woman to spacewalk; Patricia Grace Smith, with the FAA, the first associate administrator of commercial space transportation; Dr. Anousheh Ansari, a spaceflight participant; Major Nicole Malachowski, the first female pilot with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds; and Major Samantha Weeks, the first female solo pilot with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. The expo commemorates humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as an aerial salute featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also demonstrated precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — On stage for the World Space Expo's Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum are Ret. Colonel Eileen Collins, the first female shuttle commander; Dr. Kathryn D. Sullivan, the first American woman to spacewalk; Patricia Grace Smith, with the FAA, the first associate administrator of commercial space transportation; Dr. Anousheh Ansari, a spaceflight participant; Major Nicole Malachowski, the first female pilot with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds; and Major Samantha Weeks, the first female solo pilot with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. The expo commemorates humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as an aerial salute featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also demonstrated precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — In the spotlight for the World Space Expo's Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum are Ret. Colonel Eileen Collins, the first female shuttle commander; Dr. Kathryn D. Sullivan, the first American woman to spacewalk; Patricia Grace Smith, with the FAA, the first associate administrator of commercial space transportation; Dr. Anousheh Ansari, a spaceflight participant; Major Nicole Malachowski, the first female pilot with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds; and Major Samantha Weeks, the first female solo pilot with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. The expo commemorates humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as an aerial salute featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also demonstrated precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — On stage for the World Space Expo's Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum are Ret. Colonel Eileen Collins, the first female shuttle commander; Dr. Kathryn D. Sullivan, the first American woman to spacewalk; Patricia Grace Smith, with the FAA, the first associate administrator of commercial space transportation; Dr. Anousheh Ansari, a spaceflight participant ; Major Nicole Malachowski, the first female pilot with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds; and Major Samantha Weeks, the first female solo pilot with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. The expo commemorates humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as an aerial salute featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also demonstrated precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D pilot Maj. Tad Clark is greeted by Col. Dave Thompson with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing. Between them is Lisa Malone, director of External Relations at KSC. Clark flew in to KSC to announce to waiting media that the Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D pilot Maj. Tad Clark is greeted by Dan LeBlanc, chief operating officer of the KSC Visitor Complex. Between them is Lisa Malone, director of External Relations at KSC. Clark flew in to KSC to announce to waiting media that the Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Maj. Tad Clark, pilot of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D (background), announces to waiting media that the KSC Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. Behind Clark are (from left) Dan LeBlanc, chief operating officer of the KSC Visitor Complex, Lisa Malone, director of External Relations at KSC, and Col. Dave Thompson with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Look -- It's a bird and a plane! A U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D aircraft streaks through the sky past a slower-flying stork over the NASA News Center. The pilot is Maj. Tad Clark, who, after landing at the Shuttle Landing Facility, announced that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11, featuring an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend. The Expo will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Debbi Odom

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D pilot Maj. Tad Clark is greeted by External Relations Director Lisa Malone after his arrival at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility. Clark flew in to KSC to announce to waiting media that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Visitors gather along the NASA Causeway to watch the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds practicing for the World Space Expo Aerial Salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond, the expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as the air show. Participating in the air show are the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights will also demonstrate precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Silhouetted against the cloud-strewn sky over NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D aircraft displays its prowess. The pilot is Maj. Tad Clark, who, after landing at the Shuttle Landing Facility, announced that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11, featuring an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend. The Expo will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Debbi Odom

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Lisa Malone, director of External Relations at KSC, talks to the media at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility about the arrival of Maj. Tad Clark, pilot of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16D (background). Clark flew in to KSC to announce to waiting media that the Visitor Complex will host the inaugural World Space Expo from Nov. 3 to 11. Behind Malone are (from left) Dan LeBlanc, chief operating officer of the KSC Visitor Complex, Clark, and Col. Dave Thompson with the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing. The Expo, which will feature an aerial salute by the Thunderbirds on its opening weekend, will create one of the largest displays of space artifacts, hardware and personalities ever assembled in one location with the objective to inspire, educate and engage the public by highlighting the achievements and benefits of space exploration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly past Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in commemoration of NASA's 50th anniversary. The aircraft had flown earlier to support the Daytona 500, also celebrating its 50th anniversary, and chose to fly over Kennedy on their way to their next assignment. On the pad, space shuttle Endeavour waits to launch on the STS-123 mission. Photo courtesy of USAF/TSgt. Justin D. Pyle

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in commemoration of NASA's 50th anniversary. The aircraft had flown earlier to support the Daytona 500, also celebrating its 50th anniversary, and chose to fly over Kennedy on their way to their next assignment. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly past Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in commemoration of NASA's 50th anniversary. The aircraft had flown earlier to support the Daytona 500, also celebrating its 50th anniversary, and chose to fly over Kennedy on their way to their next assignment. On the pad, space shuttle Endeavour waits to launch on the STS-123 mission. Photo courtesy of USAF/TSgt. Justin D. Pyle

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in commemoration of NASA's 50th anniversary. The aircraft had flown earlier to support the Daytona 500, also celebrating its 50th anniversary, and chose to fly over Kennedy on their way to their next assignment. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in commemoration of NASA's 50th anniversary. The aircraft had flown earlier to support the Daytona 500, also celebrating its 50th anniversary, and chose to fly over Kennedy on their way to their next assignment. Below them is space shuttle Endeavour, waiting to launch on the STS-123 mission targeted for March 11. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds fly over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in commemoration of NASA's 50th anniversary. The aircraft had flown earlier to support the Daytona 500, also celebrating its 50th anniversary, and chose to fly over Kennedy on their way to their next assignment. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, at left, fly past Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center where space shuttle Endeavour (lower right) waits to launch on the STS-123 mission. The aircraft had flown earlier to support the Daytona 500, also celebrating its 50th anniversary, and chose to fly over Kennedy on their way to their next assignment. Endeavour is being prepared for launch on the STS-123 mission targeted for March 11. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, at right, fly past Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center where space shuttle Endeavour waits to launch on the STS-123 mission. At left, the rotating service structure has closed around the shuttle, with only the tip of the external tank showing. The aircraft had flown earlier to support the Daytona 500, also celebrating its 50th anniversary, and chose to fly over Kennedy on their way to their next assignment. Endeavour is being prepared for launch on the STS-123 mission targeted for March 11. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, at right, fly past Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center where space shuttle Endeavour waits to launch on the STS-123 mission. At left, the rotating service structure has closed around the shuttle, with only the tip of the external tank showing in this view. The aircraft had flown earlier to support the Daytona 500, also celebrating its 50th anniversary, and chose to fly over Kennedy on their way to their next assignment. Endeavour is being prepared for launch on the STS-123 mission targeted for March 11. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During a rehearsal, Brig. Gen. Susan J. Helms, Commander of the 45th Space Wing at Patrick Air Force Base, makes a few comments to kick off the World Space Expo Aerial Salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. ): Commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond, the expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as the air show. Participating in the air show are the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights will also demonstrate precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During a rehearsal, Center Director Bill Parsons helps introduce the World Space Expo Aerial Salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond, the expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as the air show. Participating in the air show are the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights will also demonstrate precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During a rehearsal for the World Space Expo Aerial Salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Center Director Bill Parsons (second from left) greets members of the U.S. Army Golden Knights who will demonstrate precision skydiving. Commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond, the expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as the air show. Participating in the air show are the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights will also demonstrate precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During a rehearsal for the World Space Expo Aerial Salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, an honor guard from Patrick Air Force Base marches along the NASA Causeway. Commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond, the expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as the air show. Participating in the air show are the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights will also demonstrate precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrate precision landing as part of the World Space Expo aerial salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a P-51 Mustang keeps pace with a U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor during the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Chamberland

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the water next to the NASA Causeway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, part of the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing puts on a demonstration during the World Space Expo aerial salute. This unit was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Chamberland

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Several of the planes are participating in the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft joining in the salute include U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Aerial Demonstration Squadron , U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a cavalcade of veteran Apollo and Mercury astronauts, John Glenn rides in the back of a Corvette driven by Al Worden. On Feb. 20, 1962, John Glenn piloted the Mercury-Atlas 6 "Friendship 7" spacecraft on the first U.S. manned orbital mission. Worden was command module pilot for Apollo 15, July 26-Aug. 7, 1971. The astronauts were part of the World Space Expo, an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. Commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond, the expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as an aerial salute featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also demonstrated precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Another of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds lands at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The aerial demonstration squadron is performing for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft participating in the salute include U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Crowds fill the areas along NASA Causeway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to watch the World Space Expo aerial salute. Aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydivers. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Several of the planes are participating in the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft joining in the salute include U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Aerial Demonstration Squadron, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the water next to the NASA Causeway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, part of the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing puts on a demonstration during the World Space Expo aerial salute. This unit was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Chamberland

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — At NASA's Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility, the air crew for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron line up at left for a walkdown with the pilots, at right. The squadron is part of an aerial salute for the World Space Expo held at the center's Visitor Complex. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron is lined up on NASA's Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility before leaving. The squadron performed for the World Space Expos' aerial salute along with other aircraft that included the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydiving team. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Crowds at NASA's Kennedy Space Center watch the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrate precision skydiving as part of the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrate precision skydiving as part of the World Space Expo aerial salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The air crew for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron show their precision formation as the planes prepare to take off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The squadron performed for the World Space Expos' aerial salute along with other aircraft that included the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydiving team. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets flies over NASA's Kennedy Space Center as part of the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydiving team. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pilots of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron get ready to leave NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The squadron performed for the World Space Expos' aerial salute along with other aircraft that included the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydiving team. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor is parked on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The plane is participating in the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft joining in the salute include U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Aerial Demonstration Squadron, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds line up on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The aerial demonstration squadron is performing for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft participating in the salute include U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Another of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds is parked on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The aerial demonstration squadron is performing for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft participating in the salute include U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — A P-51 Mustang, seen here on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, is part of the World Space Expo aerial salute held at the Center's Visitor Complex. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A member of the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrates precision skydiving as part of the World Space Expo aerial salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds line up on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The aerial demonstration squadron is performing for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft participating in the salute include U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The air crew for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron show their precision formation as the pilots get ready to take off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The squadron performed for the World Space Expos' aerial salute along with other aircraft that included the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydiving team. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, External Relations Director Lisa Malone greets members of the U.S. Army Golden Knights, a precision skydiving team who were part of the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron performs during the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Chamberland

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron flies in formation over NASA's Kennedy Space Center as part of the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydiving team. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrate precision skydiving as part of the World Space Expo aerial salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Chamberland

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron fly in close formation during the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydivers. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Two of the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets practice their maneuvers over NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The jets are participating in the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft joining in the salute include U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Aerial Demonstration Squadron , U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The air crew for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron show their precision formation as the planes prepare to take off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The squadron performed for the World Space Expos' aerial salute along with other aircraft that included the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydiving team. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrate precision skydiving as part of the World Space Expo aerial salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Chamberland

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron performs during the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Chamberland

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Another of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds is parked on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The aerial demonstration squadron is performing for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft participating in the salute include U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Crowds at NASA's Kennedy Space Center watch the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron perform during the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydivers. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The airplane used by the U.S. Army Golden Knights arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The Golden Knights will demonstrate precision skydiving as part of the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other air demonstrations are planned by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Aerial Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Near the NASA Causeway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, part of the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing puts on a rescue demonstration during the World Space Expo aerial salute. This unit was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets demonstrate their formation flying during the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Chamberland

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pilots of several U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet jets climb out of the cockpits on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Several of the planes are participating in the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft joining in the salute include U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Aerial Demonstration Squadron , U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron performs during the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Chamberland

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Crowds at NASA's Kennedy Space Center watch the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron perform during the World Space Expo aerial salute. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydivers. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A C-17 lands on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The plane is providing support for the aerial show being performed for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Aircraft participating are the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Crowds fill the areas along NASA Causeway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to watch the World Space Expo aerial salute. Seen in flight is the plane used to refuel rescue helicopters in mid-air. Aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydivers. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — One of the Starfighters F-104 Demo Team pays a visit to NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The Starfighters are taking part in an air show in Jacksonville, Fla., and took the time to pay tribute to the World Space Expo at the center. The expo included an aerial salute featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The plane is participating in the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft joining in the salute include U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Aerial Demonstration Squadron, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds line up on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The aerial demonstration squadron is performing for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft participating in the salute include U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Another of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds lands at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The aerial demonstration squadron is performing for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft participating in the salute include U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. — At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are ready to take off to participate in an aerial salute for the World Space Expo. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrating precision skydiving. The World Space Expo Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Another of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds is parked on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The aerial demonstration squadron is performing for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft participating in the salute include U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The air crew for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron show their precision formation as the planes prepare to take off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The squadron performed for the World Space Expos' aerial salute along with other aircraft that included the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery, and the U.S. Army Golden Knights precision skydiving team. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Barbara West, from local ABC affiliate WFTV, talks to the audience of Girl Scouts attending the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum during the World Space Expo held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The forum featured Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The expo commemorates humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs, as well as an aerial salute featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also demonstrated precision skydiving. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds is parked on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The aerial demonstration squadron is performing for the World Space Expo being held from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4 at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Other aircraft participating in the salute include U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, the P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The U.S. Army Golden Knights also will demonstrate precision skydiving. The World Space Expo is an event to commemorate humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo will showcase various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also is a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The U.S. Army Golden Knights demonstrate precision skydiving as part of the World Space Expo aerial salute at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Other aircraft joining in the expo salute include the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Demonstration Squadron, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornets, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle, P-51 Mustang Heritage Flight, and the U.S. Air Force 920th Rescue Wing, which was responsible for Mercury and Gemini capsule recovery. The World Space Expo held Nov. 1-4 was an event commemorating humanity's first 50 years in space while looking forward to returning people to the moon and exploring beyond. The expo showcased various panels, presentations and educational programs. It also was a part of NASA's 50th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the 45th Anniversary of the Mercury Program celebration featuring original NASA astronauts John Glenn and Scott Carpenter and the Pioneering Women of Aerospace forum featuring Eileen Collins and other prominent female space veterans. The agency was founded Oct. 1, 1958. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett