Accepting Your Mission

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Mission Control

How Do I Make My Reservation?

Step 1: Decide if you want to go to the Challenger Center at HMNS or at the George Observatory.

Both centers are managed by the Houston Museum of Natural Science and have similar programs. A Challenger Mission at the Museum includes admission to the Permanent Exhibit Halls and all the other venues are available at discounted school rates. HMNS is located near Hermann Park, central to everyone in the Houston area. The Challenger Center at the George Observatory is located in Brazos Bend State Park, rated one of the top 10 state parks in the nation. Other activities can be added to a mission at the Observatory, such as astronomy classes and a visit to the large telescope. A day in Brazos Bend Park can be very educational in a relaxing atmosphere.

Step 2: Choose a mission option that fits your group.

Several mission options are available at both centers. Junior, Regular, and Advanced Missions have been developed to fit different age groups.

Visit Your Mission for more information.

Additional astronomy classes are available at the George Observatory. These classes can be added on to your mission to make Mega Missions.

Step 3: Pick at least 3 days that will suit your schedule for your field trip.

Some parts of the year are busier than others, therefore the amount of time in advance you should register will vary. To book a field trip for the fall, you should book as soon as school starts. Because of state testing and spring break, March and early April are a good time for home school groups and private schools to book and only a few weeks advanced registration is required. Late April and May are the busiest time of the year so registration should be made several months in advance. Generally there is higher demand for Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Step 4: Make the call.

To book a birthday party at HMNS, call 713-639-4631. To register for all other programs call 713-639-4629. Choose option 1 for ticket sales then 1 for school sales. Please have the following information ready when you call: school name, principal’s name, complete mailing address, number in group, date and time, location (HMNS or George Observatory), and mission option.

Step 5: Astronaut Training.

Go to the Ready Room to get tips on preparing your astronauts and picking teams.