Kennedy Space Center News - March 2014

There's always something going on at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. In addition to all their amazing attraction, exhibits, and shows, there are also many different special events that are sure to attract many visitors.

Here you are a quick list of just some of the special happenings that will take place in the next few weeks in the various themed sections of the Kennedy Space Center:

1. A robot revolution will invade Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex March 14-16 for the first ever Robot Rocket Rally, a three-day festival celebrating the latest in robotic technology from NASA, industry leaders and universities.  Robot Rocket Rally will allow visitors to explore the fascinating world of robots with examples of NASA-developed robots, discover how robotic technology is lending more than just a helping hand to benefit mankind, meet working robots, hear from robotics experts and even operate a robot. The event features a robotic expo with hands-on exhibits and games showcasing the latest in robotic and engineering technology. The study of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is at the heart of Robot Rocket Rally, with exhibitors ranging from middle school robotics clubs to veteran NASA scientists and engineers. Robot Rocket Rally is included in Visitor Complex daily admission.

2. The launch of SpaceX 3 is scheduled for March 16 at 4:41 a.m. to deliver cargo to the orbiting International Space Station (ISS). This is the third Commercial Resupply Services flight bringing food and supplies to the 15-year old station. SpaceX 3 also will carry robotic climbing legs for NASA’s Robonaut-2, currently aboard the ISS.

3. Space Shuttle Atlantis, the largest and most comprehensive attraction in the world devoted to the U.S. Space Shuttle Program, will resonate with the inspiring sounds of “Symphonic Odyssey” performed by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra (BSO) on March 22 at 8 p.m. The first-of-its-kind concert will feature Christopher Confessore, BSO musical director and principal conductor, conducting 60 professional musicians performing such music as Richard Strauss’ “Also Sprach Zarathustra” fanfare and Johann Strauss, Jr.’s “The Blue Danube Waltz,” from the film “2001: A Space Odyssey;” “Star Wars” and “Star Trek” compositions by John Williams; and a special performance of “The Last Starfighter Overture,” created recently by composer Craig Safan specifically for the “Symphonic Odyssey” concert. The concert is a fundraiser benefiting the BSO. General admission tickets are $150 per person and VIP admission is $250 per person. To purchase tickets, visit www.brevardsymphony.com or call the BSO office at 321-242-2024.

4. Veteran NASA astronauts will meet with visitors at Astronaut Encounter:

• Space Shuttle Astronaut Bob Cenker, March 1-5
• Space Shuttle Astronaut Jon McBride, March 6-7
• Space Shuttle Astronaut Wendy Lawrence, March 8-14
• Space Shuttle Astronaut Sam Durrance, March 15-16

For more information about these special events, feel free to visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.