Florida’s Astronaut Training Experience

If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to go to Mars — without having to actually go through the rigors of doing so or waiting indefinitely until humanity has the ability to do so — you’re in luck. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is launching a new Astronaut Training Experience that brings a level of authenticity to the visitor experience.

The ATX allows students to become part of a crew that includes mission simulation of launching, landing and walking on Mars. There’s a spacewalk in a microgravity simulator, and the ability to try out a launch simulation as a member of the launch control team and the Orion capsule crew. There are personalized video logs created throughout the experience that allow participants to relive the experience after it’s over.

The five-hour program will take place twice a day, at 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Anyone ages 10 and older can participate once they pay the $175 price tag. The experience officially launched in February. The participation does not include admission to the rest of the visitor complex.

Due to safety requirements, visitors to ATX must speak fluent English and be in good health.