This exhibit explores Southwest Ohio’s pivotal role in the Space Race, and the Atomic Age, which marked groundbreaking innovations in science and technology still used today. From the atomic labs at Mound Laboratory that invented the nuclear battery—technology that has, and continues to power numerous space missions. To the launch pads of NASA, which sent our first humans to space, and eventually to the Moon. Our own Dr. Paul Herget worked on both the Vanguard and Mercury programs, with his pioneering work in early computers for astronomical calculations, orbital computations, and also establishing the Observatory as the first Minor Planet Center, the official global center for tracking asteroids.

Ohio gave the world many of its firsts in space—its astronauts, nuclear power, and groundbreaking work in celestial mechanics and computing, to name a few. As we look towards to returning to the Moon with the Artemis missions, and to next year’s celebration of 250 years of American independence—its important to remember Ohio’s formidable legacy in space exploration and how our innovative spirit continues to propel humankind to the furthest reaches of the universe.

 

The Cincinnati Observatory is pleased to be a part of the Ohio Air & Space Trail.