NASA Glenn Research Center

While some Clevelanders have never heard of NASA Glenn Research Center, it’s quite a fascinating place. Located next to Hopkins Airport, the most visible building is the hangar (you can see it from Brookpark Road and I-480).

The facility’s Visitor’s Center hosts daily lectures about everything under the sun (pun intended), and lots of space far beyond our sun’s reach. The best part about the Visitor’s Center is what I lovingly refer to as space garbage: a flight suit worn by the center’s namesake, John Glenn; replicas of Mars research vehicles; and a recovered capsule from a mission to space. There’s even a scale to convert your Earth weight to Moon weight (after watching those pounds magically disappear, you should consider picking up some astronaut ice cream from the gift shop...a trip to any NASA facility isn’t complete without it).

Recently, many of the other buildings were part of an open house celebrating the center’s 50-year anniversary. It was immensely enjoyable to wander around the grounds (in the designated areas, of course) and tour various buildings. One of my favorites was the Ares I rocket production facility -- NASA Glenn has been charged with the task of building a test version of the vehicle, scheduled for launch within a year or so. Surprisingly, we were allowed to walk right next to the immense components of the rocket, an experience that would remind anyone that going into space is huge, literally and figuratively. A guided tour would likely provide a lot more information and attention from the staff -- luckily, NASA Glenn offers guided tours on certain Saturdays from April through October. Check this link for details.

Before visiting, be sure to check NASA’s guidelines for visitors (click on the link). Also, allow a few minutes for a security check when you arrive on the property. All visitors must be US citizens and will need to provide security personnel with government-issued photo identification.

I’ve yet to find a water fountain at NASA Glenn that dispenses Tang, the ultimate astronaut beverage, but I’m willing to bet it’s there somewhere...let me know if you see one!

by: Cathleen Dalton