The National Air and Space Museum will host its annual “Sally’s Night” event Saturday, June 20, from 6 to 11 p.m. as part of the Smithsonian’s “Solstice Celebration” programming. Held in recognition of the anniversary of Sally Ride becoming the first American woman in space, the event honors her legacy and highlights the contributions of women in STEM.
Visitors can enjoy programming that explores the wonders of the universe and showcases women’s roles in space exploration and science. Activities include postcard writing, mission mascot design, LEGO displays and a scavenger hunt. Guests can also speak with museum historians and scientists, attend planetarium shows, participate in live trivia and view IMAX films.
From 9 to 11 p.m. on the West Terrace, the museum’s astronomy educators will lead stargazing with telescopes, offering views of objects in the night sky. Free passes are required for entry to the main event inside the museum and can be reserved on the museum’s website. Passes are not required for the outdoor stargazing.
“Sally’s Night” is part of the Smithsonian’s “Solstice Celebration,” expanded this year to run Friday, June 19, through Sunday, June 21. As part of the celebration, the museum will also be open on Friday night from 6 to 11 p.m. While no formal programming is scheduled that evening, visitors are invited to explore the museum after hours. Free passes are required and can be reserved on the museum’s website.
The museum’s “Sally’s Night” program began in 2021 as a virtual event and was held the following two years at Nationals Park. In 2024, it moved to its current format at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington as part of the Smithsonian’s “Solstice” programming.
The National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., is located at Independence Avenue and Sixth Street S.W. and is open every day except Dec. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, but timed-entry passes are required to visit. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is located in Chantilly, Virginia, near Washington Dulles International Airport and is open every day except Dec. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, and parking is $15.