Smithsonian Air and Space opens halls for “milestone” and “future” artifacts

The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum has opened two new halls, showcasing both historical and futuristic artifacts. The "Milestones of Flight Hall" features the Friendship 7 capsule, which carried John Glenn on the first American orbital spaceflight in 1962. This iconic spacecraft is joined by other significant aircraft and spacecraft, highlighting pivotal moments in aviation and space exploration history. Alongside the historical exhibits, the museum has also debuted the "Kenneth C. Griffin Exploring the Planets Gallery," which focuses on the future of space travel. This new hall features artifacts from private space companies, including a rocket engine from SpaceX and a booster from Blue Origin. These exhibits provide visitors with a glimpse into the rapidly evolving commercial space industry and the technologies that may shape the future of space exploration. The opening of these two halls underscores the Smithsonian's commitment to showcasing both the remarkable achievements of the past and the promising advancements that are shaping the future of aerospace.