The main focus of what is a unique exhibition in Germany is to demonstrate to the general public the benefits of pursuing research projects in space. The German Space Travel Exhibition in Morgenröthe-Rautenkranz is starting with a brief historical summary of developments in astronomy, the discoveries made as a result and man’s desire to leave his home planet, the exhibition documents the first experimental flights and rockets. The exhibition covers a wide spectrum encompassing the initial man-made satellites orbiting round the earth, the first Soviets and Americans in space, the moon landing programme, satellites and probes, either close to planet earth or travelling to distant galaxies, and the space stations from the early days to the new International Space Station.
The section of the exhibition dealing with unmanned space travel is largely devoted to the broad range of satellite systems close to planet earth. This ranges from communications satellites that have become an integral part of modern life to weather satellites and even environmental and special research satellites. Thanks to the support from national and international space administrations and research institutes, visitors obtain some impressive information about the latest findings from remote sensing and environment monitoring satellites and how they are used to carry out research in the fields of meteorology, cartography, oceanology, communications and ecology.
The section of the exhibition that deals with manned space flight mainly documents flights by German astronauts and cosmonauts. Particular emphasis is given to the flight made by the first German cosmonaut, Dr. Sigmund Jähn, who comes from Morgenröthe-Rautenkranz. Visitors can not only see original space suits and research equipment, but also many interesting exhibits, which provide information about everyday life in a weightless world and how some results obtained during space flights are used in the fields of medicine, biology, industry and daily life. Almost every German who has been into space and many Russian and American cosmonauts and astronauts have played their part in making this exhibition very special because they have donated personal gifts from their missions.
A glimpse of life in very cramped quarters is a very special experience. The training module for the base unit of the MIR space station provides a vivid impression of life aboard. Many European space travellers completed the first stage of their training in this module.
The exhibition also provides many opportunities for visitors to expand their knowledge, discover new facts and experience what space travel is all about …
Location:
Deutsche Raumfahrtausstellung Morgenröthe-Rautenkranz e.V.
Bahnhofstraße 4, 08262 Muldenhammer, Germany
