Sneak peek: New Washington Pavilion space exhibition nearly ready for liftoff

This piece is sponsored by Washington Pavilion Management Inc.

It’s final boarding call for a chance to experience the current space and technology floor at the Kirby Science Discovery Center because  a new exhibition is waiting in the wings.

“The space theme is still there – but we’re taking it to the next level,” said Kristine Chrisopulos, director of strategic initiatives at the Washington Pavilion. “It’s going to be revamped with a very different vibe that we think people will find really cool.”

The second floor is set to begin its transformation Aug. 18 – so you have until then to visit the current exhibits. Many favorites will be returning with the upgrade, but there are also tons of exciting additions ahead.

“While our previous exhibits highlighted the history of space travel, this new space is designed to shift the focus to the possibilities and the future of space,” said Maddy Grogan, director of education and museums.

The new floor, called Space Explorers: Mission Infinity, was developed in partnership with MarketBeat and Dakota State University and also is sponsored by MidAmerican Energy Foundation and the Sheldon F. Reese Foundation. It will reflect the latest investments in space exploration such as advancements in technology, missions to the moon and Mars, and private sector involvement in space travel.

“This approach invites our visitors to not just learn about the past but to envision the future, a future where space exploration is intertwined with the quest to better understand and protect our own planet,” Grogan said.

Space Explorers: Mission Infinity will include five distinct zones.

Zone 1: Into the Unknown — entrance 

In the first zone, you’ll learn what inspires space exploration and get an introduction to the major zones of the exhibit.

“I think each zone will have a wow factor, starting with getting into the exhibit itself,” Chrisopulos said.

“There will be a ‘space walk’ type of feeling where you’re entering a rocket, so it’s a high-impact feel right from the start.”

Zone 2: We Have Lift Off

Experience what it’s like to launch the world’s biggest rockets, and imagine yourself as an astronaut on board.

“You’ll learn about the principles behind how rockets work and the preparation it takes to launch,” Grogan said.

Zone 3: Mission to Planet Earth

Get ready to go into orbit around the Earth, the only place we know now that supports life. It’s the second step in your space journey as you witness the marvel of Earth from space, discovering its unique beauty and importance.

Zone 4: Living on the Red Planet

Now, on to Mars. You’ll step into an established base on the red planet as your third stop in the journey.

“We’ll show you where humans have begun to explore and make Mars an inhabited planet, while you discover and explore how to survive and enjoy life there,” Grogan said.

There’s also an element of farming on Mars “that has clear ties to South Dakota and what that would look like on Mars,” Chrisopulos said.

Zone 5: Where No One Has Gone Before 

This last stop on the journey will bring you to the outer solar system, places we are just beginning to explore. You’ll learn about and encounter unique astronomical phenomena, from black holes to nebulas to gas clouds and even imagine what forms of life we might find beyond Earth.

“It’s an intergalactic feel that’s going to be a lot different and futuristic,” Chrisopulos said.

The new exhibition will bring new ways to engage with area businesses, Grogan said.

“We have amazing partners in our community that are doing incredible things when it comes to the future of space exploration,” she said.

“There are so many great concepts and educational objectives tied to this floor that our team is so excited to develop new programming and special events around.”

That includes the Sweetman Planetarium, which will be contiguous to the new Space Explorers: Mission Infinity and serve as a way to elevate programming within the entire floor.

 “There’s a big focus on wanting this whole area to be interactive and a draw for kids, with a huge element adults can still enjoy as well,” Chrisopulos said.

“So we’re having a lot of conversations about impactful programming, and I think you’ll see that for all generations.”

The partnership with DSU has allowed for repurposing the exhibit’s longtime robotic arm, she added.

“The students have been working on coding for it in order to make the robotic arm more impactful and fun, so we’re excited for visitors to see their work.”

Technology will be woven throughout Space Explorers: Mission Infinity, Chrisopulos added.

“We’re in a tech-based world, so there will be a lot of screens and other technology coming that bring an educational aspect we can incorporate throughout the exhibits,” she said. “Utilizing that technology means we’re not just able to create something meaningful for today, but it allows us to update and ideate as we continue to advance as a community.”

Ready to plan your visit to the Kirby Science Discovery Center? Visit here to get started.