For an out-of-this-world experience, visit Wisconsin's fascinating space-related attractions and discover a new world of possibilities. From museums and observatories to planetariums and other educational sites, your children can dive into the wonders of space exploration.
Sputnik Crash Site- Manitowoc Wisconsin
On May 15, 1960, the Soviet Sputnik IV spacecraft blasted into space. Despite all expectations, something went awry with its reentry procedure.
The spacecraft's journey was extraordinary as it reached a higher orbit level than ever before and went on for over two years. On September 5, 1962, it reentered the atmosphere, and pieces of hot metal fell in Wisconsin, changing the story of one town forever.
On the morning of October 4, 1957, Manitowoc residents witnessed a remarkable sight – up to 24 pieces of Sputnik debris falling from the sky! Some components were so heavy that they made a loud thunder-like sound upon impacting the ground. One unprecedented piece even landed in the street, weighing 20 pounds, at North 8th St and Park St.
The two police officers patrolling the area went on with their daily duties after spotting a mysterious lump of metal. It wasn't until later, when they heard about the launching of Sputnik that they realized what an important discovery they had made.
Commemorating the fantastic discovery, a brass ring in the middle of the street stands as a reminder of the historic event. Make sure to stop by the Rahr-West Art Museum which houses a replica cast from the original to remind us of this historical event.
Sputnikfest is now held annually in Manitowoc to commemorate the occasion with the catchphrase "Sputnik landed here…why don't you?"
Tommy Bartletts Exploratory- Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
For over 30 years, the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory has piqued human curiosity as a family favorite science museum in Wisconsin Dells. It opened in 1982 as Tommy Bartlett's Robot World, featuring lovable robots like those popularized by film and TV of the era. The following year, the Exploratory emerged, allowing visitors to delve "hands-on" into science.
The Exploratory is a tremendous interactive science center, ideal for people of all ages and interests. With over 175 exciting exhibits that challenge your mind and tickle your senses, this place is perfect for a day of exploration and learning.
The traditional robots have been replaced with more interactive and engaging displays about space exploration. This was further amplified in 1997 when Tommy Bartlett acquired Russia's original MIR core module. Recently, a Mercury Space Capsule replica was included in the museum space. It's a great way to give visitors a unique experience of outer space without having to leave Earth! Surrounding this incredible science landmark in Wisconsin Dells are numerous attractions, such as the Giant Lever and High Wire SkyCycle, sure to delight each visitor.
Star Gaze at Newport State Park- Ellison Bay, Wisconsin
The International Dark-Sky Association is committed to preserving the night sky, so they award a select few with the Dark Sky Park designation. This designation shows that these places have achieved a level of dark sky preservation that is genuinely extraordinary. In 2017, Newport made history by becoming the first dark sky park in Wisconsin and the 49th in the world to receive the international designation. This milestone was an incredible achievement for Newport and its people. International Dark Sky Parks are particular sites with splendid starry night skies and nocturnal environments. These places are preserved to protect their scientific, natural, educational, and cultural heritage and for everyone's enjoyment.
Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bike Museum- Sparta Wisconsin
Bicycling and Deke Slayton are strongly associated with Sparta, Wisconsin, the Bicycling Capital of America. The city was home to the first Rails to Trails program in the USA – an initiative that converted old railway lines into cycling routes. Additionally, Deke Slayton was born here and went on to become one of America's most iconic astronauts. The residents wanted to forever glorify these traditions, and the Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum was born!
Deke Slayton, a pioneer of American space exploration, is part of the historic Mercury 7 group assembled by NASA in the late 1950s. In 1975 he was part of the crew for the US/Russian Apollo-Soyuz docking mission, the very first international space mission of its kind, which blazed the way for the International Space Station.
His legacy will forever live on as an inspiration to younger generations!
Visit Space at a Planetarium- Multiple Locations
What is a planetarium?
Planetariums are unique theaters that show educational and entertaining shows about the sky and astronomy. They provide an incredible experience for people learning more about the stars and planets. The term "planetarium" can refer to the star projector, the show, or even the building that houses it. Depending on your context, all of these terms could work perfectly! Step inside a planetarium and meet a captivating dome holding millions of stars and planets. This dome is the projection screen, bringing galaxies right before your eyes!
Wisconsin is home to numerous planetariums: The MMDD Planetarium, Barlow Planetarium, and Kovac Planetarium are just a few options to explore with your family. Find the closest one to you!
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