Intro
Discover the worlds largest aviation and space museum at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Explore historic aircraft and spacecraft, including the Space Shuttle Discovery and SR-71 Blackbird. Learn about aerial history, aviation innovation, and the pioneers who shaped flight. Get insider tips on visiting this National Air and Space Museum extension in Chantilly, Virginia.
The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, located in Chantilly, Virginia, is a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by the history of aviation and space exploration. As the companion facility to the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., the Udvar-Hazy Center offers a vast collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft that showcases the incredible achievements of human innovation and exploration.
With over 300,000 square feet of exhibition space, the Udvar-Hazy Center is one of the largest non-government funded aviation and space museums in the world. The center is named after Steven F. Udvar-Hazy, a Hungarian-born businessman who made his fortune in the aviation industry and donated $60 million to the Smithsonian Institution to build the center.
Aerial History Collections
The Udvar-Hazy Center boasts an impressive collection of over 140 aircraft and 150 spacecraft, including some of the most iconic and historic vehicles in aviation and space history. Some of the highlights of the collection include:
- The Space Shuttle Discovery, which flew on 39 missions and spent a total of 365 days in space.
- The SR-71 Blackbird, a supersonic reconnaissance plane that can fly at speeds of over Mach 3.
- The B-29 Enola Gay, the bomber that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima in 1945.
- The Apollo 11 command module, which carried Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the first manned mission to the moon.
Imax Theater and Planetarium
The Udvar-Hazy Center also features a state-of-the-art IMAX theater and a planetarium that offer a range of educational and entertaining programs. The IMAX theater shows a variety of films, including documentaries and blockbuster movies, on a massive screen that measures over 60 feet tall and 86 feet wide.
The planetarium offers daily shows that explore the wonders of the universe, from the sun and the planets to distant galaxies and nebulas. The planetarium also offers special programs and events, such as stargazing nights and viewing parties for celestial events like meteor showers and planetary alignments.
Restoration and Conservation
The Udvar-Hazy Center is not just a museum, but also a working restoration and conservation facility. The center's team of skilled conservators and restorers work tirelessly to preserve and restore historic aircraft and spacecraft for display and educational purposes.
Some of the current restoration projects include the B-26 Marauder, a World War II bomber that is being restored to its original condition, and the Apollo 11 command module, which is undergoing a major conservation project to preserve it for future generations.
Education and Research
The Udvar-Hazy Center offers a range of educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages. The center's education team provides guided tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities that explore the history of aviation and space exploration.
The center also hosts a range of research programs and activities, including the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum's Summer Internship Program, which provides students with the opportunity to work with the museum's curators and conservators on research projects.
Special Events and Exhibitions
The Udvar-Hazy Center hosts a range of special events and exhibitions throughout the year, including lectures, symposia, and anniversary celebrations. Some of the upcoming events include:
- The annual Udvar-Hazy Center Air Show, which features historic aircraft and modern military planes.
- The Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Celebration, which will include special exhibitions, lectures, and events.
- The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum's Annual Gala, which honors the achievements of aviation and space pioneers.
Gallery of Aviation and Space History
Aviation and Space History Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours of operation for the Udvar-Hazy Center?
+The Udvar-Hazy Center is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, except for December 25.
How much does it cost to visit the Udvar-Hazy Center?
+Admission to the Udvar-Hazy Center is free, although some special exhibitions and programs may require a fee.
Can I take a guided tour of the Udvar-Hazy Center?
+Yes, the Udvar-Hazy Center offers guided tours of the museum and its collections.
We hope this article has inspired you to visit the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center and explore the incredible history of aviation and space exploration. Whether you're a history buff, a science enthusiast, or just someone who loves to learn, the Udvar-Hazy Center has something for everyone. So why not plan a visit today and discover the wonders of the past, present, and future of flight?