National Air and Space Museum Celebrates “Mars Day!” Virtually July 16–18
The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum will present this year’s “Mars Day!” program virtually. This annual tribute to the Red Planet will take place online Thursday, July 16 through Saturday, July 18. Each day, the museum will present a variety of live programs, including talks by Smithsonian scientists on human colonization of Mars and the Mars Rover Perseverance’s landing site, discussion of David Bowie’s music inspired by the Red Planet, a demo of a Mars-inspired cocktail by José Andrés’ Barmini cocktail innovator and more. Each day will also feature a Mars Social Media Quiz involving Mars geography.
Thursday, July 16
1 p.m.—What’s New in Aerospace: Rovers
This live chat about robotic exploration of Mars will feature museum curator Matthew Shindell and NASA engineer Kobie Boykins and will be available on the museum’s website and Facebook Live.
Friday, July 17
1 p.m.—Virtual Scavenger Hunt: Geography of the Red Planet
The virtual scavenger hunt, using the GooseChase app, will feature trivia and activities that explore the Red Planet.
5 p.m.—Instagram Live Mini-Talks
The museum’s AirSpace podcast will take over the National Air and Space Museum’s Instagram with short lightning talks on Instagram Live that provide a scientific and cultural look at the Red Planet.
Saturday, July 18
1 p.m.—Virtual Scavenger Hunt: Mars 2020
This virtual scavenger hunt, using the GooseChase app, will feature trivia and activities about the upcoming launch of the 2020 Mars Rover Perseverance, scheduled to launch later this summer.
3 p.m.—EZ Science: Mars 2020
In this episode of the museum’s web series featuring museum director Ellen Stofan and NASA associate administrator Thomas Zurbuchen, Dr. E and Dr. Z will discuss the technological advancements of the newest Mars Rover Perseverance.
For more information and a detailed schedule of activities, visit https://airandspace.si.edu/
The National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., is located at Sixth Street and Independence Avenue S.W. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is located in Chantilly, Virginia, near Washington Dulles International Airport.
