Smithsonian Launches Star Trek Exhibit

Visitors to the museums of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., can explore the history of space, learn what it was like to live as an American Indian or view some of the world´s most famous pieces of art and sculpture. Now, those who visit the National Air and Space Museum (both Trekkies and non-Trekkies) will get to experience a close-up view of the Star Trek Enterprise, the exact model used in the studio for previous Star Trek films.

The spaceship has been undergoing refurbishment since the museum acquired the model in 1974. Updates include a complete paint job, and the newly spruced-up ship is ready for fans who visit the museum´s Boeing Milestones of Flight hall. The Enterprise, equipped with two small motors, is enclosed within protective glass and features a unique lighting system that puts on a show for onlookers three times per day, at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., for a period of 10 minutes each.

The National Air and Space Museum is not only unveiling a piece of cinematic history, but it is also celebrating its 40th anniversary of opening visitors´ minds to a world of air and space exploration.