Space exploration enthusiasts from Beltsville and other communities in Prince George's County will soon be gathering for an exciting hands-on event.
In a couple of weeks, the NASA Goddard Visitor Center in neighboring Greenbelt will be hosting the Apollo Moon Landing Model Rocket Contest. Poster printing may well be on the rise as the organizers of this activity seek to distribute promotional materials around the community.
The launch event is being held in commemoration of the 44th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Lunar Landing, which took place on July 20, 1969. Adults and teenagers will be showing off their own miniature rockets during the contest. The goal will be to land them in a designated area on the floor that has been painted to look like the moon. The most successful contestants will earn model rocket kits and trophies.
All rockets will be examined before take-off to ensure that they meet certain safety standards and have running motors. Participants who need to purchase rocket parts will be able to do so at the on-site gift shop. They will also have a chance to test their rockets and make any necessary repairs before the contest begins.
In addition to the competition, the event will feature demonstration flights of model rockets patterned after real-life NASA ones.
The contest is scheduled for Sunday, July 14 at 1:00 pm. There will be no admission charge for participants or spectators.
The Visitor Center is located just south of the Goddard Space Flight Center (8800 Greenbelt Road). Those requiring more detailed driving directions or other information may call (310) 286-8981.
