by L.S. Watts

Created on: April 02, 2009   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

The US Space and Rocket Center (USSRC) is a staple landmark in Huntsville, AL. Huntsville is home to Marshall Space Flight Center and Redstone Arsenal. In fact, Huntsville is referred to as the Rocket City and for good reason. Dr. Werner von Braun headed up space technology in the 1950s from Huntsville, AL. Since then NASA has made tremendous stride in space exploration. Many of which have come directly from Huntsville, AL.

The center opened in 1970 due to the efforts of Dr. Werner von Braun. The US Space and Rocket Center is home to more than 1,500 permanent space exploration artifacts, along with several hands-on interactive exhibits. The first thing you notice at the US Space and Rocket Center is the Saturn I and Saturn V. In fact, it is quite noticeable even several miles away.

Attractions

The USSRC has many attractions to choose from. The Space Shot gives you a chance to see what it feels like at lift-off as it lifts you 140 feet in the air in 2.5 seconds which equates to 4Gs at lift off. Experience three times the force of gravity in the G-force Accelerator. Ever wish you could take off to Mars? The Mission to Mars simulator is for you. Experience what it is like to ride a roller coaster on Mars. Perhaps you would rather see what it was like to be in the cockpit of the Apollo? The Apollo Cockpit Trainer simulates what it was like as an Apollo astronaut. Discovery Theatre gives you a better insight to life and work on the International Space Station.

There is so much more to learn and experience at the USSRC, but before you leave let your children work off some of their energy at the Kids Cosmos Zone. This is a playground with a space theme that also has a mini version of Space Shot designed specifically for small children.

Exhibits

The exhibits at the USSRC are constantly changing so even if you are local, each trip is an unique experience. However, there are permanent exhibits there. Some of these include the Davidson Center for Space Exploration which is located right at the front door as you come in, the aviation and missiles section, the propulsion systems area, the scene of the first man on the moon, and so much more.

Hours of Operation

The museum is open daily from 9am - 5pm. However, it is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve, and New Years Day.

Admission

There are two ticket types to choose from. The first one is the Combo Package. This includes entrance into the museum and admittance to one IMAX movie. The cost for this package

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