Maryland has long been a space where science has thrived, and that includes the space and aviation industries. Today, visitors to Prince George’s can dive into the past and present of these important fields through on-site visits, museum exhibitions, hands-on experiences, and virtual programming. You’ll leave every one of these experiences with a deep appreciation for the region’s impact on these science-centered industries.
Visit one of these spots in Prince George’s to learn more about space and aviation:
- The Goddard Visitor Center in Greenbelt showcases the innovative and exciting work done by NASA in science, astrophysics, heliophysics, planetary science, engineering, communications, and technology development. There, visitors can participate in NASA-connected events, like ones focused on women in space or model rocket launches, or tour the center’s permanent exhibits on heliophysics, the solar system, space communications, and more. Don’t miss the monthly Sunday Experiment event, where children can join science-focused activities.
- Learn about the history of aviation in Prince George’s at the College Park Aviation Museum. The whole family will love seeing the airfields where Wilbur Wright trained the first generation of military aviators, the many reproductions of historic aircrafts, and the story of how air mail came to the country. Stop by for the Afternoon Aviators program to dive into STEM and aviation-themed science lessons and activities.
- Visit the first black-owned and operated airfield in the state of Maryland at the end of Croom Airport Road in Upper Marlboro. The site of the Columbia Air Center was once home to a flying school, charter services, and facilities for major and minor repairs. The first black Civil Air Patrol in the region, known as the Columbia Squadron, was also founded at the site.
- The University of Maryland Astronomy Observatory in College Park is not currently open to the public, but it does sometimes support digital events for the public. Look out for a possible public event on Maryland Day around April, during which you might be able to talk to an astronomer and observe the sky through the telescopes.
- Join an event at the Howard B. Owens Science Center in Lanham, where you can learn about science and space. Head to the site to behold the beauty of the stars at the largest planetarium in Maryland or participate in on-demand programming for children in elementary, middle, and high school.
Dig into more history in Prince George’s with visits to these historic farms.