At Kennedy Space Center, you can explore beyond the first man on the moon

Kennedy Space Center gives visitors a glimpse of the world just beyond most people’s reach. From rockets to moon rocks, this museum is a gateway to space.

Have you been to Kennedy Space Center? With the recent release of First Man, starring Ryan Gosling, more people are reexamining the space program. As SpaceX and other aerospace companies explore space technology, Florida’s Space Coast is booming. While the rocket launches might be more frequent, both young and old are visiting the visitor complex to rediscover the scientific marvel of space exploration.

Growing up, a Space Shuttle launch was a huge event. Although the Space Shuttle has been retired, the idea of a human being traveling on a rocket to space is still mind blowing. From the force required to break the Earth’s orbit to the physical endurance to withstand that power, astronauts seemed superhuman.

While not the superheroes of Marvel’s comic books, these brave men and women have just as many real-life superpowers. From scientific knowledge to physical prowess, these astronauts could tackle the most difficult tasks. Plus, they are part of an elite, small group that many wish to be a part of but few achieve.

As many blockbuster movies have shown, the space program doesn’t offer an easy life. While the glory and infamy are legendary, the hardships associated with that life are many. But, without great struggle, the accomplishment wouldn’t be so relished.

CAPE CANAVERAL, FL – MARCH 12: In this handout provided by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket with NASA’s Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) spacecraft onboard launches from the Air Force Station Space Launch Complex 41 March 12, 2015 in Cape Canaveral, Florida. NASA’s MMS mission will study how magnetic fields around Earth connect and disconnect, explosively releasing energy via a process known as magnetic reconnection. MMS consists of four identical spacecraft that work together to provide the first three-dimensional view of this fundamental process, which occurs throughout the universe. (Photo by Aubrey Gemignani/NASA via Getty Images)

Since the majority of people will never experience blasting off into space, the Kennedy Space Center in Titusville, Florida offers a magnificent glimpse into that glorious world. Even though people have seen rockets, Space Shuttles and glorious pictures on the screen, the real life, up-close look at these pieces of history are truly breathtaking.

For many people, a trip to Florida means a visit to a relaxing beach or a trip to an exciting theme park. But, just an hour from Orlando lies the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. At the space center, guests can explore various aspects of space exploration. From the rugged beginnings of space exploration to today’s more frequent rocket launches, guests can spend days immersing themselves in this vast world.

One of the first things that guests realize when visiting the space center is the sheer size involved. Watching images on a screen often leads to a misperception of the gigantic scale of a rocket. These powerful devices are immensely large.

To get a better understanding of the size, guests should spend some time exploring the Space Center’s rocket garden. Walking around these pieces of history shows that the first astronauts were brave beyond belief. Think about it. They were willing to strap themselves into the awesome power of a rocket, meant to propel a person at incredible speeds.

While these rockets are visually impressive, the stories behind the men and women could inspire future space exploration. Located just beyond the rocket garden is the relatively new Heroes & Legends and Astronaut Hall of Fame. This fully immersive exhibit offers guests amazing insight on the men and women behind the space program.

This exhibit focuses on what it means to be a hero. While bravery is one adjective, these exceptional people have excelled in all aspects of life. The 4D multisensory theater brings the history to life. With real-life artifacts, guests are in awe of these epic accomplishments.

For people who want a more in-depth opportunity to interact with astronauts, guests can book programs to have lunch with an astronaut or tour the complex with an astronaut. For the ultimate space experience, guests can book the “fly with an astronaut” experience. Guests can step aboard the Shuttle Launch Experience, where you can feel what it is like to launch. I would recommend this experience only for those people who want extreme adrenaline rushes.

Truthfully, to see all the exhibits at the Kennedy Space Center would take two days. From the race to the moon to the all the science behind a rocket launch, there is so much information in this visitor complex. Still, even a short visit can help people appreciate both the history and the future of the space program.

While rocket launches are happening more frequently, occasionally guests can plan a visit around one of these special events. Watching a launch (from a safe distance) is extremely memorable. The power, fury and rumble of the rocket is almost indescribable. If you are lucky enough to see one of these launches, don’t miss the opportunity.

Even though Harry Potter and Mickey Mouse have broad, mass appeal, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex shouldn’t be overlooked during a trip to Florida. As more movies highlight the bravery, glamor and determination of the men and women behind the space program, people are becoming more engaged with this topic. From Hidden Figures to First Man, the movies could inspire visits, which might result in future scientists.

Kennedy Space Center is located approximately one hour east of Orlando. The visitor complex opens at 9 a.m. every day, but closing time varies. Ticket prices vary depending on the package.

Are you ready to explore beyond the first man on the moon? Kennedy Space Center could be the most memorable attraction in Florida, if you don’t overlook it.