NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is gearing up for its annual open-house event, Explore JPL, which will take place on October 10 and 11. This year marks the 90th anniversary of JPL's establishment, and the event promises to be a celebration of its rich history and cutting-edge innovations. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect from this exclusive event.
A Journey Through Space and Time
Explore JPL offers a unique opportunity to step inside the heart of JPL's operations, located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains in Southern California. Visitors will be able to explore four distinct thematic areas, each showcasing different aspects of JPL's work.
Missions That Changed the World
This section will take you on a journey through some of NASA's most iconic missions. From the first satellite, Explorer 1, to the iconic Voyager and Galileo missions, you'll get a firsthand look at how these missions shaped our understanding of the universe. What makes this particularly fascinating is the opportunity to see how these missions evolved over time, with a focus on the challenges and breakthroughs that made them possible.
Moon to Mars
Here, you'll explore the future of space exploration, with a focus on the journey to Mars. Visitors will get a chance to see full-scale models of the Mars Perseverance rover, which is currently exploring the Red Planet, and learn about the technological advancements that make these missions possible. This section will also highlight the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in our quest to become a multi-planetary species.
In Flight
This area will showcase the behind-the-scenes operations of JPL's Space Flight Operations Facility, a National Historic Landmark. Here, engineers send commands and receive data from spacecraft billions of miles away. It's a fascinating insight into the real-time decision-making and problem-solving that goes into space exploration. What many people don't realize is the level of precision and coordination required to make these missions a success.
Makerspace
Explore the latest innovations in robotics research, from autonomous lunar rovers to search-and-rescue robots. This section will showcase the cutting-edge technologies that JPL is developing to advance space exploration and Earth science. One thing that immediately stands out is the potential impact of these technologies on our daily lives and the future of space exploration.
Practical Information
Tickets for Explore JPL are free but limited, and they go quickly. They will be available on the Explore JPL webpage at 9 a.m. PDT on August 29, 2023, and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of five tickets per requestor. Orders for more than five tickets may be subject to cancellation. Tickets are specific to time slots and must be reserved for specific names.
Attendees must have their tickets in hand and show government-issued identification for entry. Children under age 2 do not require a ticket, but the event is not designed for very young guests. Visitors are advised to check the list of prohibited items before attending, as it includes weapons, explosives, glass containers, and professional camera equipment with detachable telephoto lenses.
A Celebration of Innovation
Explore JPL is more than just an open house; it's a celebration of innovation and the spirit of exploration. It's a chance to connect with the people and technologies that are pushing the boundaries of what's possible. If you take a step back and think about it, JPL's work has a profound impact on our understanding of the universe and our place in it. This event is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the endless possibilities that lie ahead in space exploration.
For more information, follow JPL on Facebook, X, and Instagram, or visit their website for a virtual tour. Explore JPL promises to be an unforgettable experience, offering a unique glimpse into the world of space exploration and the people who make it possible.
