WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- “Above and Beyond,” an interactive science exhibition exploring transformative innovations in aerospace, will launch Saturday, Sept. 17 at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.
The 500-square-metre exhibition will offer an unprecedented interactive demonstration of advances in aviation and aerospace, from the first powered flights to the newest innovations on Earth and in space. Flight simulation, immersive theater, touch-table displays, and augmented reality are examples of exhibit technology offering an experiential understanding of the scientific concepts behind flight.
After entering an immersive wraparound theater, visitors can venture into five galleries comprising dozens of interactive displays. Exhibitgoers can ride to the edge of space in a simulated space elevator or test their own supersonic fighter-jet design in a virtual high-speed flying competition. A group flying experience with motion-sensing image capture helps visitors sense what it’s like to fly like a bird in a flock, while exploring the forces of flight.
“While we celebrate the U.S. Air Force’s 75th Anniversary with a look at the past, present and future it’s the perfect time to launch ‘Above and Beyond’ at the museum,” said National Museum of the USAF Education Division Chief, Michael Brimmer. “This immersive interactive exhibit is a tremendous way to help spark student interest in what could be possible in the future and encourage them to continue studying the fields of science, technology, engineering and math - or STEM.”
Located in the museum’s 4th building, “Above and Beyond” is free to all visitors and will be open during regular museum hours of 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily from Sept. 17 – Dec.15.
“Above and Beyond” is produced by Evergreen Exhibitions in association with Boeing, in collaboration with NASA and the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. In addition, the Air Force Museum Foundation has also partnered with CenterPoint Energy, which in part allows the museum to host free interactive aviation experiences including the “Above and Beyond” exhibit presented by Boeing. Federal endorsement is not implied.
Throughout 2022 the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force has proudly celebrated the 75th anniversary of the United States Air Force by hosting a variety of events and exhibits to share the history of the Air Force and the stories of our airmen with the public. A complete schedule of events and exhibits is available at https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Upcoming/Events/75th-anniversary/.
The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, is the world’s largest military aviation museum. With free admission and parking, the museum features more than 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles and thousands of artifacts amid more than 19 acres of indoor exhibit space. Each year thousands of visitors from around the world come to the museum. For more information, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.
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NOTE TO PUBLIC: For more information, contact the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force at (937) 255-3286.