Celebrate National Aviation Day during free event at museum

Celebrate National Aviation Day with free educational activities from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Aug. 20 at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.

National Aviation Day is a celebration of all things related to aviation and is held on the anniversary of Orville Wright’s birthday (145 years ago on Aug. 19). During the event, museum visitors will learn about achievements in aviation and aerospace from the time of the Wright brothers' first flight to modern Air Force technology.

These aviation and space demonstrations are appropriate for all ages and take place throughout the day. Activities will include a “flying race” between a Wright Flyer and an F-22, as well as flying a Wright Flyer in a wind tunnel while learning about the stability and control of aircraft. Visitors also will witness some modern-day technologies with a look at fuel cells, nanotechnology and robotics.

In addition, visitors will be able to build and fly their own foam gliders from 1:30-3 p.m. while supplies last. This activity is free and open to all ages.

Younger visitors will enjoy a Storytime program at 11:30 a.m. and again at 1:15 p.m. in Carney Auditorium. This activity will feature stories of flight as well as a hands-on craft project. A limited number of books will be available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis during each storytime, through the generosity of the Air Force Museum Foundation, Inc. and PNC Foundation. (No federal endorsement implied.)

While you’re at the museum, be sure to check out MathAlive!, a highly entertaining, interactive traveling exhibit that allows visitors to experience math in action. The 5,000-square-foot exhibit is located in the Cold War Gallery and includes more than 40 immersive experiences.

All activities are free, and 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 19 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.