Beyond Planet Earth: The Future of Space Exploration will be at the American Museum of Natural History until August 12th, 2012. Curated by Dr. Michael Shara, the exhibit was put together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of human space flight. Though the future of space is fascinating in itself, I knew I had to visit when I read that there was an interactive display that allowed visitors to “smell the moon”.

As an introduction, an ample amount of information on the history of space exploration was explained, which gave way to information on the possibilities of further travel, and what it would mean for the world’s progression. As it is the most likely planet to harbor life, the exhibition shared a large amount of information about Mars and NASA’s exploration plans for it. Though information was presented through various text displays, the museum advertised the exhibition’s heavy use of interactive displays. Downloadable applications for smart phones and devices were available, allowing further interaction on a personal level.

The interactive displays were the most engaging parts of the experience, as they were intended to be. I took the personality test that determines whether one is ready for a space mission or not (I was almost ready). I got to look at models of proposed ideas for space stations. The Knowles meteorite, made of iron and weighing 355 pounds, was on display. There were six stations set up to digitally explore the surface of the moon. Then, of course, there was a station set up that upon pressing a button, a gust of air was released, simulating the smell of the moon.

Tickets include museum admission
Adults: $25.00
Children: $14.50
Seniors: $19.00
Students: $19.00

American Museum of Natural History
79th street and Central Park West
The Museum is open daily, 10:00 a.m.—5:45 p.m.
The Museum is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.

http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/