NASA Exhibit Lets You Experience Being a Test Conductor

NASA’s Stennis Space Center: Powering the Dreams of the Artemis Generation

Nestled near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, NASA’s Stennis Space Center is playing a pivotal role in nurturing the imaginations of future space explorers. Through an engaging and interactive exhibit at the INFINITY Science Center, the facility is providing an educational experience that allows visitors to delve into the world of space engineering and propulsion.

Experience the Thrill of Engine Testing

One of the highlights of the INFINITY Science Center is the engine test simulator exhibit. This interactive experience offers participants a taste of what it’s like to be a NASA test engineer. By guiding an RS-25 engine through a simulated hot fire test, visitors can immerse themselves in the rigorous and thrilling process of engine testing, feeling the rush of responsibility that comes with ensuring the safe and successful operation of rocket engines.

Chris Barnett-Woods, a NASA engineer who contributed to developing the exhibit’s software, emphasized the excitement and educational value of the experience. “It is an exhilarating opportunity to feel what it is like to be a NASA engineer, responsible for making sure the engine is safely tested for launch,” he shared.

Hands-On Learning with Cutting-Edge Technology

The exhibit recreates the complex environment of NASA’s Stennis Test Control Center, complete with consoles and visual displays that mimic the real setup. Participants are guided through the intricate process of managing liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen propellants, among other critical tasks, during a simulated engine hot fire.

Engaging in a step-by-step walkthrough, users press buttons, manage propellant tanks, and even close the flare stack, mirroring the real-life procedures undertaken by NASA engineers. Upon successful completion of the test, participants are congratulated for conducting their own rocket engine hot fire, a moment that captures the essence of real-world engineering challenges.

Beyond Button-Pushing: A Wealth of Information

While the simulator is undoubtedly an interactive delight, it also serves as an educational resource packed with fascinating facts about the RS-25 engine. This powerful engine is a key component of NASA’s Artemis missions, which aim to delve into the mysteries of the universe for the benefit of humanity. As visitors navigate the exhibit, they gain insights into the intricacies of rocket propulsion testing and NASA’s ambitious plans to return to the Moon and explore beyond.

The exhibit’s educational value is further enhanced by allowing visitors to view real hot fire tests conducted at NASA Stennis from multiple angles. This visual treat deepens their understanding of the engineering marvels that underpin space exploration.

Preparing for the Next Leap: The Artemis Missions

NASA is gearing up for the Artemis II mission, which will be the first crewed flight test of the agency’s formidable Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion spacecraft around the Moon. This mission is part of a broader series of Artemis missions, all of which are being powered by modified space shuttle main engines tested at NASA Stennis.

In April 2023, the center reached a significant milestone in testing engines that will power future Artemis missions. Each Artemis mission is propelled by four RS-25 engines, working in conjunction with a pair of solid rocket boosters to produce a staggering 8.8 million pounds of thrust at liftoff. This immense power is crucial for the ambitious goals of the Artemis program, which seeks to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon and pave the way for future missions to Mars.

A Collaborative Effort to Inspire

The revitalized exhibit at INFINITY Science Center is the result of a collaborative endeavor. Initially conceived as an intern project during the summer of 2023, the concept evolved into a full-fledged educational experience. Engineers built upon the initial idea, incorporating carpentry, audio, and video elements to create a seamless and inspiring simulation.

What sets this exhibit apart is its accessibility. Visitors have the opportunity to repeat the simulation as many times as they wish, gaining confidence and expanding their knowledge with each attempt. This hands-on approach encourages learning through experimentation, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in rocket engine testing.

A Must-See Experience at INFINITY Science Center

The engine test simulator has long been a favorite among visitors, and with its recent upgrades, it promises to captivate the imaginations of the Artemis Generation. Samone Wilson, a NASA Public Affairs Specialist, expressed enthusiasm for the exhibit’s potential impact. “This exhibit was a favorite in the past, and with its new upgrades, the engine test simulator is poised to capture the imaginations of the Artemis Generation at INFINITY Science Center,” she stated. “This is one exhibit you will not want to miss.”

Located at 1 Discovery Circle in Pearlington, Mississippi, the INFINITY Science Center provides a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with NASA’s cutting-edge technology and learn about the exciting future of space exploration. For more information on hours of operation and admission details, interested individuals can visit the center’s official website.

In conclusion, NASA’s Stennis Space Center, through its innovative exhibit at INFINITY Science Center, is paving the way for a new generation of space enthusiasts. By offering a hands-on experience that mirrors real-world engineering challenges, the center is inspiring young minds to dream big and consider the possibilities of space exploration. Whether you’re a budding engineer or simply curious about the wonders of the universe, this exhibit is a must-see destination that brings the excitement of space exploration to life.
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