Join Us!

Established in 1986 to showcase the latest advances in space exploration, the Henry Crown Space Center has recently completed its second major renovation since opening (first one was in 2008). As part of this renovation, a twice flown first generation Space X Cargo Dragon Capsule (C113), designed to ferry cargo to and from the International Space Station, joined the museum’s 1962 Aurora 7 Mercury spacecraft and 1968 Apollo 8 Command Module on display.

Although designed to withstand reentry to Earth’s atmosphere at 15,660 miles per hour, temperatures up to 3,620oF, and a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean, the Dragon was no match for Chicago. Upon arrival to MSI the Dragon’s scorched exterior heat shield material called “SPAM” could not even withstand a light breeze without shedding. Anna Weiss-Pfau of Third Coast Conservation will discuss Dragon’s conservation, maintenance of the other two spacecraft, and the challenges related to conducting these treatments during the renovation.

                                 

*RSVP to CACG@chicagoareaconservation.org

All are welcome to attend.
*RSVPs are strongly encouraged for this event in order to ensure access to the museum and parking garage.