After some construction, the Owensboro Rotary PlayZeum at the Owensboro Museum of Science and History is returning to its full ability this Saturday — just in time for OMSH to celebrate the anniversary of the 1969 moon landing.
Executor Director Kathy Olson said construction started in May, and the project was fully funded thanks to money allocated by the Kentucky General Assembly.
The PlayZeum includes a new LED light system attached to the now-exposed original wood ceiling. The major change to the area included removing the overlook tube that stuck out over Daviess Street.
Olson said the space will continue to be a main attraction for many families.
“The Owensboro Rotary PlayZeum is one of the most popular family attractions here at the museum. It’s a great place for families to gather in all different seasons, a place where children learn while playing, and has a following across the region. We are excited to be able to open it back up for patrons and look forward to seeing everyone,” Olson said.
The museum is also inviting the community to celebrate the 55th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. The large scientific discovery was a monumental day for generations to come, and Olson said what better way to ring in the celebration than through the opening of the PlayZeum.
All museum activities are free with the purchase of general admission.
The fun will start Friday night with a telescopic moon viewing at 7:45 p.m., an activity that will be held again at 8 p.m. on Saturday. Both nights are dependent on weather conditions.
From 12-4 p.m. Saturday, the museum will have various stations where visitors can learn about the history of the landing. These include a stomp rocket station, a moon map viewing station, a build-your-own space medallion station, and space moon camp stations.
They will showcase footage of the launch, Neil Armstrong’s first steps, science experiments between Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, and a moon landing simulation.
Regional storyteller Susan Fowler will also present stories about the Apollo 11 landing through her “Live Action Drama” sessions, which involve much crowd interaction. The shows are expected hourly from 12:30-3:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
The museum continues to be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays for other construction. Olson said the nonprofit is working on 12 projects, and that schedule allows for more construction.
