We drove into Washington and parked, as it was cheaper than taking six people in on public transport, and much more convenient! We began our time in Washington DC at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Most of our time today was spent in the 'space' section which was great. Of note, were the diaries of the director of the Soviet Space program - not only in reading the Russian perspective, but simply because a Russian government employee actually kept a diary! On display was the "computer programming" that initiated the transmission from the first Sputnik - a single piece of metal (about the size of a paper clip) which, when jiggled by being released from the rocket, fell out and closed a circuit. The Soviets may have got to space first, but the Americans did everything with much more style (and useful purpose).
It was also fun to listen to the kids take on things. Quote of the day today is from Benedict - "Mum, is that the space shuffle?" (and, no, I was not doing a dance at the time!) The kids also really enjoyed the half hour education session on 'How things fly", and I have to admit, Ken and I were right into it too! The presenter was awesome and so loved his job!
Following the Air and Space Museum, we wandered across to the National Museum of the American Indian. What a lovely, well thought out, museum. Its design and layout were so lovely and the exhibits were enjoyable - particularly the 'Universe' exhibit using storytelling to relay the American Indian dream time stories.
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| Apollo re-entry capsule |
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| exploring the concept of buoyancy |
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| the education session! |
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| exploring air pressure |
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| the kids took turns to pitch, yaw and roll the plane - it was awesome! |
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| feeling the heat difference between the tiles - the one on the left is used on the space shuttle, the one on the right is plain ol' metal |
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| The suit had moon dust still on the legs! |
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| Waiting for Ken to come back with drinks :) |
I am in love with Washington DC. It is a quiet place, a lovely city, and so many museums. I have told Ken he is to return to study to get a job here! So, nice knowing you all!
