posted 06-08-2024 06:03 PM               

New space stations exhibit invites public to find ‘Home Beyond Earth’

A new exhibit about space stations turns the focus from how astronauts live in space to how millions of people may do so in the years to come.

The past, present and future of humans residing in orbit is explored in "Home Beyond Earth," a temporary exhibition now open at The Museum of Flight in Seattle. Spread over three galleries, more than 50 artifacts bring the subject to life, augmented by large digital projections and interactives.

posted 06-11-2024 11:21 PM               

Many of the objects and topics were somewhat familiar to me, but there were things and people featured that I had never heard of before. The museum's collaboration with Boeing and the Smithsonian was evidenced by contractor models and illustrations from the Boeing historical archives and, from the Smithsonian, the end of the actual lopper tool (or maybe it was a functional backup or test article) from Skylab that was used to help free the jammed solar array. I don't recall ever seeing that before. Also on display is Nicole Stott's watercolor painting she created while on the ISS, on loan by the artist.

The things that struck me the most were the beautiful graphics, vintage illustrations, and the multitude of models (period contractor and modern custom built) on display. I left thinking that I would need to return for at least one more visit to absorb all of what is presented.

Here are some of the photos I took while walking through the exhibit...

posted 06-12-2024 12:06 PM               

There are also stickers and a neat "Space Nerd" pin, among other "Home Beyond Earth" logo products.