Are you looking for something fun to do on a chilly winter day? Why not check out the Massachusetts Air and Space Museum? The museum, located in the heart of Hyannis, recently opened its doors after a year of renovations. It now sits directly across from the John F. Kennedy Museum so you can make a day of museum hopping. Around the area, you’ll also find shops and restaurants.
The boutique museum is fun for the entire family and aviation buffs. Take a walk back in history and learn about the origins of aviation and space exploration along with how local participation helped to foster the industry. You can even enjoy firsthand interactive exhibits that take you on a simulated flight journey.
History of the Massachusetts Air and Space Museum
The Massachusetts Air & Space Museum was launched in January 2007. Members of numerous Massachusetts aviation and space organizations joined forces to make the museum dream a reality. The group is now a nonprofit tax-exempt organization. Contributions from private and corporations coupled with grants have helped raise a quarter of a million dollars.
The museum’s Advisory Committee is made up of numerous local individuals who provide the leadership and guidance needed to meet goals. A general membership was developed to enlist the assistance of volunteers and raise funds. They accept donations that are completely tax deductible.
The entire mission of the Massachusetts Air and Space Museum is to promote education and share the museum with the public. Each of the exhibits has been made possible by the contributions made by many organizations, companies, and individuals to educate younger individuals and let them know about the many career opportunities such as becoming a rocket scientist, pilot, and aircraft mechanic.
Exhibits at the Massachusetts Air and Space Museum
At the newly opened Massachusetts Air & Space Museum is the new John Write Wood Jr. Grumman Albatross cockpit deck restoration. The restoration project was started after salvaging an old cockpit from a salvage boneyard in Tucson, Arizona. Authentic aircraft manuals obtained from the Naval Historical Center in Washington D.C. helped guide the restoration process over the course of two years and around 800 hours.
When exploring the Massachusetts Air & Space Museum, you’ll find many exhibits that highlight all the residents of Massachusetts and the many organizations which helped advance the space and aviation industry. Peruse an assortment of aerospace systems, artifacts, and photographs.
On display at the museum is a replica of the Apollo space suit which stands in a position to greet visitors as they arrive on their adventure through the museum.
The Beatles History Raffle
One of the ways that the Massachusetts Air & Space Museum makes money is by hosting raffles. If you want to own an iconic piece of history, then you’ll want to try your hand at winning ‘The Beatles’ which is a Thurston Teal (AOPA Pilot). The Thurston Teal Amphibious Aircraft raffle will help benefit the museum’s educational programs.
Grand Prize: Classic 1970 Thurston Teal Airplane (N501ME)
The amphibious airplane has less than 1,350 hours. It features a 150 HP Lycoming engine with a Hartzell prop which has only has 130 hours since its complete overhaul. It has new tires and a new inspection.
- ADS-B
- PJ2 COM Radio
- Electronics international model R-1-4 digital RPM/TACH
- Model M-1 digital manifold pressure gauge
- King KLX 135 GPS/Moving Map/Com
- KT 76A Transponder
- PS engineering PM 1000 2 Place intercom system
The winner of this aircraft will also receive $3,000 for a tail wheel rating and a seaplane rating. The airplane has an estimated value of $58,500. All documentation will be provided to the winner such as FAA Certificate of Airworthiness, FAA Bill of Sale, IRS forms, original design drawings, and all logbooks.
Second Prize: Bose A20 Aviation Headset (value $995.95).
Third Prize: iPad MINI with 256 GB and Wi-Fi and includes a subscription to Foreflight Pro-Plus for one year. (Value $689.98). The cellular service is not included.
