Aviation News Item: 05769

28th Feb 2010

Source: aero-news.net

The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center Will Host Events On March 13
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (NASM) will host a free "Heritage Family Day" themed around "Women in Aviation and Space" on Saturday March 13, from 10am to 3pm. Events will take place at the NASM's Udvar-Hazy Center where parents and children will learn about the accomplishments of women in aviation, science and aerospace.

Visitors will learn about the accomplishments of Amelia Earhart, the Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASPs), astronaut Sally Ride, and women who are currently contributing to aviation, science, technology, and space exploration. Book signings, story time, and fun and educational hands-on activities will take place throughout the Museum.

Speakers for the day include Maj. Nicole Malachowski, the first female plot in the USAF Thunderbirds exhibition team, and Maj. Merryl Tengesdal and Capt. Heather Fox, two of only six female pilots in the history of the U-2 "Dragon Lady". The Women in Aviation and Space program is presented in partnership with the Girl Scouts of America, and visitors will be able to view science projects by local Girl Scout troops.

Maj. Nicole Malachowski speaking at the 2009 Women in Aviation and Space event

"The 'Heritage Family Day' series helps fulfill an important part of the National Air and Space Museum's mission: to educate and inspire visitors," said Gen. J.R. "Jack" Dailey, director of the museum. "Many astronauts, pilots and engineers who participate in museum programs have told us that they were inspired by the artifacts and exhibitions they saw here when they were children."

Every year the National Air and Space Museum hosts educational family days where experts, who were inspired by their own sense of wonder, share their achievements in aviation and spaceflight. For the past five consecutive years, support for "Heritage Family Day" series has been provided by the Northrop Grumman Corporation.

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