Explore robotics during free Family Day at museum

Published Jan. 7, 2015
By Sarah Swan
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

DAYTON, Ohio -- Robots will take over the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force during Family Day from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 17.

In honor of the anniversary of Spirit and Opportunity -- the twin Mars rovers -- the museum will offer hands-on activities for children and adults of all ages. Aerospace demonstration stations, located throughout the museum's galleries, will teach fun and simple aerospace principles, such as how the "brains" of a robot work, the role of robotics in the Air Force, examples of robotic toys and more. And don't miss the working model of BB-8, the new droid in the upcoming Star Wars movie!

A special presentation, titled "Robots in the Sky," will take place in the STEM Learning Node near the Space Shuttle Exhibit from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Participants also can make their own robotic "hand" end effector during this month's Aerospace Adventure from 1:30-3 p.m. in the event area next to the Korean War Gallery

Younger visitors will enjoy "storytime" at 11:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. in the Early Years Gallery. Preschool and primary-grade children are invited to sit under the wings of airplanes and listen to stories about robots and Mars travel. Participants also can make a paper robot.

The event is free, and visitors of all ages may participate in these aviation-related activities located throughout the museum galleries. No advanced reservations are necessary. Call the Education Division at (937) 255-4646 for additional information.

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, is the world's largest military aviation museum. With free admission and parking, the museum features more than 360 aerospace vehicles and missiles and thousands of artifacts amid more than 17 acres of indoor exhibit space. Each year about one million visitors from around the world come to the museum. For more information, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

NOTE TO PUBLIC: For more information, please contact the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Education Division at (937) 255-4646.

NOTE TO MEDIA: For more information, please contact Sarah Swan at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Public Affairs Division at (937) 255-1283.

Screening at Entrance
All visitors may be screened with a metal detector upon entry. In addition all bags are subject to search and may be placed through an X-Ray machine. Weapons are not permitted including pocket knives and firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons.
Prohibited Items
Prohibited Items:
- Firearms*
- Knives
- Box cutters
- Food and Soda Drinks
- Alcohol
- Coolers

* Firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons, are specifically prohibited in Federal facilities in accordance with 18 USC §930 (c)

Permitted Items:
- Water bottles (clear, sealed bottle, up to 20 oz.)
- Purses
- Camera bags
- Diaper bags
- Strollers
- Service animals

Please note the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is not responsible for items left in vehicles.
Click here for frequently asked questions regarding items permitted inside the museum.
Visitor Photography Notice
Notice: Visitors may be filmed, photographed or recorded by the U.S. Air Force for educational and promotional uses, including for posting on public websites and social media.
Individuals are permitted to take their own photographs or videos while touring the museum.