go for launch

Texas' Space Center blasts off with new cutting-edge features for 30th anniversary

Fans can visit the lunar surface at Space Center Houston.

Renderings courtesy of Space Center Houston

Texas' most stellar destination has introduced some cosmic game-changing developments for its 30th anniversary: Space Center Houston has revealed a new plan to address the ever-growing need for space exploration learning and training with two massive structures centering on our moon and Mars at its fan-favorite destination (1601 E NASA Pkwy.).

The new Lunar Mars facility will gather guests, NASA, commercial space partners, colleges, universities, and global space agencies to collaborate on new technologies for present and future human spaceflight, per press materials.

Meanwhile, a new, elevated exhibit hall over the two surfaces will offer the public immersive experiences to observe astronaut training first-hand while experiencing the future of space exploration as humans return to the Moon and eventually on to Mars.

Specifically, the Lunar Mars facility will boast simulated surfaces of the moon and Mars, plus modular surface labs. According to Space Center Houston, these labs will design and test instruments and techniques for surface exploration, support testing lunar and Martian rovers on a one-mile indoor track, allow engineers and astronauts to practice working in reduced gravity, and conduct important emergency procedures.

Guests can look forward to an immersive experience that allows viewing of astronaut training in-person, while also offering education on missions, challenges and benefits of the space industry.

“Imagine having a front row seat on the surface of the moon or Mars right here in Houston,” noted William T. Harris, the center’s president and CEO, in a statement. “Space Center Houston is recognized for providing meaningful, moving experiences about people and the courage, innovation and teamwork they use to expand the boundaries of what’s possible. We inspire our guests to connect with the significance of space exploration, to pursue their own path in space, or simply follow along as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to bring joy and wonder to the world.”

More on that game-changing news: Space Center Houston also revealed a new logo/brand identity that the organization says in press materials represents the evolution of Space Center Houston and its future, and its mission to educate the public.

All this comes as part of a Facilities Master Plan and more plans to expand, which will be revealed in 2023.

Sound timing, as current estimates show that the global space industry is projected to grow nearly five times its current size by 2050. With 77 government space agencies currently operating around the globe, Texas boasts a key advantage as home to 17 of the world’s top 20 aerospace manufacturers, per the center.

Since its inception 30 years ago on October 16, 1992, the beloved Space Center Houston has seen more than 24 million starry-eyed guests enter its gates. Clearly, however, it’s time to rocket forward, as Houston and the nation, to quote President John F. Kennedy, choose to go to the moon, the Red Planet, and beyond.

“Space is expanding once again and a new space age is upon us,” Harris added. “With new ambitions, new players and new challenges, we will shift our focus from being a curator of past achievements to also facilitating new feats in space.”

where to travel right now

Texas poppy festival blooms + 8 more Lone Star travel ideas for April

Photo by Renee Knapek

Georgetown is known as the "Red Poppy Capital of Texas."

Adventurers hunting for an excuse to take a road trip around Texas will find many opportunities coming up in April. North Texans can check out a hidden gem in the Panhandle, visit a Hill Country brewery for its 30th anniversary, head down to the Gulf Coast for a birding festival, or book a dinner reservation at a Fredericksburg hotel's new Southern comfort restaurant.

Here are CultureMap's top picks for an April vacation around Texas.

All around Texas

Everyone is already aware of Buc-ee's gas stations, but in-the-know road-trippers are passing by the famous beaver in favor of nine destination gas stations that make Buc-ee's look basic. Some have been converted into trendy cafes, some are protected historical sites, and others sit empty but make for a great opportunity to practice road trip photography.

In Central Texas

The 27th annual Red Poppy Festival is returning to the charming city of Georgetown, a suburb north of Austin, from April 24-26. The annual extravaganza celebrates the city's blossoming poppy season and will feature a special music performance by country duo Maddie & Tae. Visitors can gather around the historic downtown square to check out a classic car show, an artisan vendor market, and more. The festival is free to the public.

Texas-made spirits brand Senza Maeso is commemorating two years since the opening of its San Marcos taproom with an all-day party on Saturday, April 4. Attendees can expect a local art market, nine live music performances, a photo booth with portraits by Eric Morales, food trucks, and specialty cocktails featuring Senza Maeso Hybrid Spirit.

Senza Maeso San Marcos tasting room Senza Maeso's retro-inspired tasting room is a vibe.Photo courtesy of Senza Maeso

Photo by Renee Knapek

Georgetown is known as the "Red Poppy Capital of Texas."

In the Hill Country

Fredericksburg's award-winning The Albert Hotel has recently opened The Wellhouse, a new restaurant offering a rotating menu of seasonal Southern comfort dishes, cocktails, and (of course) plenty of wine. A few highlights of the current menu include the garlic and brown butter crab claws, the truffle mac and cheese, the Verlasso salmon with roasted smashed Brussels sprouts, and more.

Blanco-based brewery Real Ale Brewing Co. is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a big bash on Saturday, April 18 from 12-7 pm. The brewery will have 40 beers on tap for guests; numerous new releases, including surprise casks; cocktails; food from Hill Country vendors; and four live music performances. Basic tickets are $11.66 per person, and come with one token for a beer or a non-alcoholic beverage.

At home in Dallas-Fort Worth

The new restaurant at the Hall Arts Hotel in Dallas, Astra Kitchen + Lounge, will debut its new "Astra Hour" starting on Thursday, April 9. The new happy hour will serve as a high energy transition "from the office to the weekend" with live DJs and "fun surprises" every week on Thursdays and Fridays from 4:30-8 pm.

Along the Gulf Coast

Texas birders are flocking to the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center in Corpus Christi from April 22-26 for the annual Birdiest Festival in America. The festival will host birding tours and provide educational workshops and many opportunities to observe the city's migratory and native birds. General registration is $40 per person.

In the Texas Panhandle

Matador, a tiny town about 80 miles northeast of Lubbock and 290 miles from Dallas, was recently dubbed one of the top under-the-radar rural destinations in America by Airbnb. The first-ever "off-the-map" list features 20 small towns that present new opportunities for tourism. This town in Motley County fits the bill thanks to its rich history, wide open skies, and an undiscovered feel.

Matador is also conveniently close to Caprock Canyons State Park in Quitaque ,which is known for its roaming bison population and large bat colony. Caprock Canyons has recently unveiled a major 2,200-acre expansion that will bring even more protected land for hiking, biking, horseback riding, bison-watching, and much more.