Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
This fascinating museum's 22 main exhibition galleries pay homage to some
of the most ingenious and beautifully crafted objects of flight, from the
Wright brothers' airplane to powerful spacecraft. America by Air outlines
the history of America's airline industry including airplanes from the form-
ative years of mechanical flight. Compelling exhibitions put these historic
objects in their social and political context. Moon rock is displayed so that
the public can touch it.
Independence Ave, 6th St, SW • 202 633 1000 •
www.nasm.si.edu
• Open
10am-5:30pm daily; closed Dec 25 • Dis. access
Google Map
Museum • Free
Planetarium and theater shows • adults (13-59 years) $9.00, seniors
(over 60 years) $8.00, youths (2-12 years) $7.50, Smithsonian members
$6.50
1. 1903 WRIGHT FLYER
On December 17, 1903, Orville Wright flew this craft 120 ft (35 m), making it the first
powered, piloted plane to be airborne. Muslin on a spruce and ash frame provided a
light but strong body. The Wright brothers also designed the engine.
View photo
2. RYAN NYP SPIRIT OF ST. LOUIS
Charles Lindbergh flew this plane on the first solo transatlantic flight, 3,610 miles
(5,810 km) from Long Island to Paris in 1927. His 33-hour flight made him one of
the most famous men of his age and turned aviation into a public craze. NYP stands
for New York-Paris.
