Astronaut Training Experience Grand Opening

Officials at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex prepare to push a ceremonial button to "launch" the facility's new Astronaut Training Experience (ATX). Participating, from the left, are: Dee Maynard, private education program manager for the Kennedy visitor complex, Rick Abramson, chief customer officer for Delaware North, Kennedy Director Bob Cabana, Lisa Callahan vice president and general manager of Commercial Civil Space at Lockheed Martin Space, Jim Houser, executive vice president and chief operating officer for Delaware North, and Therrin Protze, chief operating officer of the Kennedy visitor complex. The ATX uses three-dimensional computer display simulation technology to "transport" participants to Mars, training them to live and work in the environment of the Red Planet. The educational experience also teaches what it’s like to travel there. The facility uses NASA science to address engineering challenges in space travel. Lockheed Martin is the title sponsor for the Astronaut Training Experience.