The Challenger Learning Center will transform your students into NASA scientists and engineers with a single common purpose – the success of the mission! These realistic simulated space missions use hands-on and inquiry-based activities to challenge participants in the areas of teamwork, communication, problem-solving and critical thinking.
These programs align with NGSS and Common Core standards.
Watch CLC Introduction Video (Open Captions)
Note: This video is provided by Challenger Learning Center national organization and missions at The Museum of Flight vary from what is depicted.
The Challenger Learning Center is fully ADA accessible. Lighting is dimmed throughout the program and the spacecraft environment uses sounds effects and flashing lights.
Operation Comet
After several previous failed attempts, the crew is tasked with a mission to observe, research, and analyze long-period comets that have entered our Solar System. Astronauts in both Mission Control and the Spacecraft conduct experiments to study comets to help scientists better understand how they are formed and how they could potentially impact Earth.
However, during the Mission a shocking discovery is made, and the crew must brainstorm together to solve the emergency, ensuring the safety of the crew and the success of the mission.
- Suitable for students grade 5 and up
- Program Length: 2-hours
- Maximum group size: 28 participants
- Requires (2) chaperones to attend and stay for the duration of the program
Availability and Pricing
Multiple start times are available Monday through Friday.
- Fee: $500*
*Beginning January 1, 2025, the program fee will increase to $575. All reservations made prior to January 1, 2025, will receive 2024 pricing.
Resources for Operation Comet
Download Operation Comet Teacher Packet
Download Operation Comet Pre-Mission Brief PowerPoint
Download Operation Comet Job Application
Expedition Mars
The year is 2076. A handful of facilities have been established on Mars, including a greenhouse, a mobile geological survey base, and a centralized research habitat. The primary human habitat is not on Mars, but on one of its moons, Phobos! A large Spacecraft regularly ferries astronauts and scientists between the base on Phobos and the surface of Mars.
This Shuttle, or Mars Transport Vehicle (MTV) carries parts to build a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) needed to continue the search for evidence of life and water. However, when crew members discover an imminent threat to their MTV and the Martian surface facilities, they must act quickly to save their stations, their research and their lives.
- Suitable for students grade 6 and up
- Program Length: 2-hours
- Maximum group size: 28 participants
- Requires (2) chaperones to attend and stay for the duration of the program
Availability and Pricing
Multiple start times are available Monday through Friday.
- Fee: $500*
*Beginning January 1, 2025, the program fee will increase to $575. All reservations made prior to January 1, 2025, will receive 2024 pricing.
Resources for Expedition Mars
Download Expedition Mars Teacher Packet
Download Expedition Mars Pre-Mission Brief PowerPoint
Download Expedition Mars Job Application
What skills and standards do these programs support?
These programs support NGSS and Common Core standards. A full list can be found in each mission's Teacher Packet
What are the expectations for the teacher(s)/group leader(s) upon arrival at the Museum?
Let the Mission Commander and/or Flight Director know at the beginning of the day if you have any specific accommodation needs and/or need to cut the mission short due to bus pick-up times.
What should I complete and prepare for before arriving at the Museum?
Teachers/group leaders must submit the Crew Manifest in advance of arriving to the Museum. Links to the Crew Manifest were provided to you in your registration confirmation email. They are also available under Resources above.
Teachers should use the Pre-Mission Brief (available to download under Resources above) to help participants better understand their roles and objectives for the Mission. Teachers should explore the Teacher Packet (available to download under Resources above) to learn about the Mission’s objectives, program content and storyline.
Have additional questions?
Please call 206-768-7142 or email Education@museumofflight.org.
How soon can I make my reservation?
Programs must be requested at least two weeks prior to the date(s) you would like to reserve, but sooner is better.
Is Financial Assistance available?
Yes! Please visit our Financial Assistance page to learn more. Go to Financial Assistance.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than seven days in advance of the scheduled program date are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations made within seven days of the program date, including no-shows, are eligible for a refund minus a $50 administrative fee.
When is payment due?
Payment is due at least two weeks prior to your program date(s). Payment can be made over the phone by credit card (preferred) or purchase order (PO).
May I register for days/times that are not listed on the reservation calendar?
Possibly! Please call our Education team at 206.768.7142 to discuss options.
Are chaperones required? How many can accompany the group?
Yes! At least (2) chaperones are required to attend this program. A maximum of (10) chaperones are included in your registration. If you have more than 10 chaperones, additional general admission tickets will need to be purchased at the Admissions Desk.
Is admission to the Museum included with this program?
Yes. Full-day admission is included for all students and chaperones participating in the program.
More questions?
Please call 206-768-7142 or email education@museumofflight.org.
Let's Launch - FREE
Let’s Launch! is the Challenger Learning Center’s first Flipped Classroom series that is FREE to use. Each course includes an 8 to 10-minute animated video accompanied by three lesson plans for use in the classroom.
Join Maya and her friend B.U.D as they learn about planetary science – Mars, the Sun, Near-Earth Objects, the Moon and the Solar System. Appropriate for Grades 5-8
