Creative Discovery Museum exhibits are out of this world – literally. From 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on May 12, the Museum will host NASA’s Driven to Explore (DTE) mobile exhibit on the Museum Plaza. This unique compact exhibit gives children and guests a once in a lifetime opportunity to touch a real moon rock. The mobile, multi-media exhibit takes approximately 10 minutes to tour and takes guests along the journey of NASA’s history and shows how research is improving to ensure safe and sustainable future space missions.

The highlight of DTE is a 3 billion-year-old moon rock that was brought back during Apollo 17’s expedition in 1972, the last manned mission to the moon. The rock is one of only eight lunar samples in the world made available for the public to touch.

“We are very honored to partner with NASA to host the Driven to Explore exhibit in Chattanooga,” states Karen Dewhirst, Museum Experience Manager. “Touching a rock collected from the moon is a rare opportunity that brings the reality of space exploration into sharp focus.”

In addition to the moon rock, guests will learn why we explore space, the challenges of human space exploration and critical technological advances NASA provides to improve life on Earth. The walking tour includes audio and visual technology to connect visitors with the space program, highlighting research that will ensure safe and sustainable future missions, as well as next-generation vehicles and surface systems to be used exploring beyond low earth orbit.

“Learning about the technology and engineering involved in space exploration never ceases to amaze me,” continues Dewhirst. “I can’t wait to experience the exhibit!”

Driven to Explore is a free exhibit on the Plaza of Creative Discovery Museum and is designed for all ages. Additionally, Creative Discovery Museum will open its doors for the monthly Free Family Night, sponsored by Chattanooga Gas, from 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. the same evening.