A “Stellar” Guide to NASA’s Galaxy Lights

Step into a world where galaxies collide with laughter, where stars shimmer with mischief, and where space exploration meets playful enchantment. Welcome to the NASA Galaxy Lights event at Space Center Houston! 

It’s time to unleash your inner astronaut and get ready for a stellar experience that will leave you starstruck and giggling among the galaxies. Buckle up, space cadets, because the journey to fun and wonder is about to begin!

What are the NASA Galaxy Lights?

The NASA Galaxy Lights is an annual event held at Space Center Houston, where visitors can experience a captivating display of cosmic-themed light installations and immersive experiences. 

It’s a unique celebration that combines art, science, and entertainment to create an enchanting atmosphere inspired by the wonders of the universe.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore interactive installations that respond to touch. The event also incorporates educational elements that showcase NASA’s missions and discoveries. 

What can I see and do at the NASA Galaxy Lights?

The map pictured above will be your guiding star and compass as you navigate the Space Center Houston grounds, ensuring you don’t miss a single enchanting moment of this extraordinary event. 

With this in hand, let’s take a look at the different things you can do!

Marvel at the Kinetic Lights 

When you step into the Main Plaza, prepare to be amazed as you witness not one, but two extraordinary high-tech kinetic light shows. 

As you look up, you’ll witness dozens of suspended lights moving in precise choreographed sequences, all synchronized to the rhythm of captivating music. 

As these orbs gracefully glide through the air, they come together to form a dazzling array of colorful shapes and patterns. It’s like watching a symphony of light and motion unfold right before you!

Watch “Holidays in Space”

“Holidays in Space” is a film that shows how holidays are spent in space, featuring real footage of astronauts joyfully commemorating the festive season! 

You can gain insights from retired astronauts as they share their firsthand experiences of celebrating in the unique environment of space. 

You can watch the show at the Destiny Theater, where the film is screened every 30 minutes from 6:15 p.m. to 9:45 p.m., allowing you to catch this fascinating 15-minute film at a time of your choosing. 

Get Star Struck at the New Deep Space Backyard

The New Deep Space Backyard is an outdoor area covered in a celestial canopy adorned with twinkling “stars”.

You can capture unforgettable moments as you pose amidst the larger-than-life displays featuring astronauts venturing into the depths of space, allowing you to imagine yourself as part of their space explorations.

Each year, Space Center Houston opens one special display, and as of this writing, they’ve opted to captivate audiences with an enchanting spectacle – a brand-new crystal fireworks experience. 

The crystal fireworks spring to life on a magnificent 40-foot-tall cascading light structure in a dazzling fusion of colors lifted right from the breathtaking depths of the galaxy!

Watch an Interactive Show

In the Mission Briefing Center, the interactive show “Celebrate Light,” lets visitors explore the mysteries of light and delve into the fascinating science behind it. 

Here, you get to explore the pivotal role light plays in shaping the vibrant colors that surround us and gain insights into how our eyes perceive and interpret these hues.

You’ll also expand your knowledge as you delve into the speed at which light travels and uncover its many sources that illuminate our universe. The Live Show takes place at 7, 8, and 9 p.m. every night.

Walk through the Magical Light Tunnel

As you make your way to the Independence Plaza Experience, presented by MLN, you’ll first be immersed in a display of lights and music. 

This magnificent 200-foot LED light tunnel has over 250,000 lights that twinkle and dance in perfect harmony with festive holiday melodies!

Enjoy the Massive Solar System Models

As you approach Independence Plaza, massive models of each planet greet you along your path. There are also acrylic sculptures of different constellations hung on some trees and even an astronaut disembarking from a rocket ladder! 

These intricate and meticulously crafted sculptures bring the night sky to life, allowing you to actually feel like you’re amongst the different star formations.

The detail behind the sculptures of the solar system really showcase the intricate craftsmanship that went behind their creation. You can even point out the unique characteristics of each planet!

Step on the Interactive Light Pods and Light up the Floor

Near the Indepence replica at the aptly named Independence Plaza, you can jump around on the bed of interactive light pods at the Galaxy Lights event, proudly supported by H.E.B. 

Designed to resemble multicolor platforms, these light pods are nestled beneath the wing of a historic shuttle carrier aircraft, adding a touch of nostalgia and aviation heritage to your experience.

Kids will have an especially good time here trying to hop from one pod to the next, all the while making the different pods light up in different hues and colors that get reflected onto the wing of the Independence. 

Step inside the Independence Replica 

You can step inside the historic shuttle carrier aircraft NASA 905 and delve into the world of space exploration. The rich history of NASA’s missions are on display as you view the restored interiors of this iconic aircraft. 

But the adventure doesn’t stop there! As you make your way down, you’ll be able to see the high-fidelity shuttle replica of the Independence. You can even step inside the replica and get a glimpse of what it was like for astronauts during their missions.

And as you make your way down, you can see the breathtaking Saturn V rocket lights. These stunning lights pay homage to the second landing of the tower, a pivotal moment in space exploration history. 

The cherry on top of this area is being able to walk underneath a 30-foot Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The experience really makes you realize how small we truly are compared to the feats we can achieve together. 

Take Sparkling Photos 

The Galaxy Lights also features a miniature model of the Earth, adorned with shimmering lights that reflect its features. The model is complete with intricate details and an ethereal glow that makes it a perfect spot for a photo. 

As you continue your exploration, you’ll end up at the prism tree. The prism effect is caused by the shimmering lights that refract and reflect on the surface.

There’s also an all new snow globe photo station that makes it look like you’re in an actual snow globe. Inside, you’ll be surrounded by swirling snowflakes. You can snap a picture within this wintry wonderland for a photo remembrance!

Explore the Space Station Tribute at the SpaceX Falcon 9

The “Lights Around the World” display, a tribute to the international collaboration aboard the International Space Station (ISS) is the last spot in the Galaxy Lights exhibit. 

Surrounding the iconic twice-flown SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the intention of this exhibit is to showcase the unity among the space station partners.  

As you explore this extraordinary display, you’ll encounter six aluminum trees, each standing tall at 20 feet. These trees represent the Space Station partners, including the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan, Russia, and Italy. 

These trees not only symbolize the shared achievements of space exploration but also pay homage to the cultural heritage of each partner nation. The trees are all decorated to reflect the unique traditions and artistic expressions of their respective countries.

There are also plenty of good photo spots here. A massive shooting star, standing an impressive 40 feet tall and stretching 100 feet in length is a crowd favorite for a panorama or a wide-angle shot! 

At the tip of the Falcon 9 rocket, you’ll discover a 15-foot wreath crafted with the flags of all the ISS partner nations. This symbolic model serves as a powerful reminder of the unity and collaboration that exists among countries in the pursuit of space exploration. 

What should I know before going to the NASA Galaxy Lights? 

Before embarking on your cosmic adventure at the NASA Galaxy Lights, it’s important to know the schedules and ticket prices among other things. 

Here are a few key things to remember: 

• Plan your visit in advance: Check the official website for operating hours and available dates to make sure you don’t miss out on this enchanting experience.

• Dress comfortably: Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear, as you’ll be exploring various outdoor exhibits and attractions.

• Bring your camera: Capture the magical moments and stunning light displays to treasure the memories of your Galaxy Lights adventure.

• Arrive early: Arriving early allows you to avoid long queues and gives you more time to explore the exhibits at your leisure.

• Engage with the interactive elements: Participate in the hands-on activities and interactive displays to enhance your understanding of space exploration and light science.

Space Center Houston

Address: 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058

Contact Information: +1 281-244-2100

Website: https://spacecenter.org/galaxy-lights/ 

Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter

Operating Hours:

• From November 12 until January 1: Everyday from 6pm to 10pm
• Dates closed:  November 24, December 8, 24-25

Ticket Prices:

• Public Price: $19.95
• Member Price: $15.95
• Kids ages 3 and younger: Free

Pro Tip: 

You can avail of a combo ticket that grants you admission to the entire space center starting at noon and followed by access to the NASA Galaxy Lights area.