The Space Mirror Memorial, located at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, is open from 9 AM to 6 PM from March 17th to April 27th, and from 9 AM to 5 PM from April 28th to June 29th. It is open every day of the year. Entry to the complex ends 1 hour before closing.
The Space Mirror Memorial is included in the admission to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, with daily tickets starting at around $50 per person. Annual passes are also available for unlimited admission.
From Orlando, take SR 528 west, exit for SR 3 toward Merritt Island. A poignant tribute to space explorers awaits, reflecting their legacy against the sky.
Parking at Kennedy Space Center: Cars, motorcycles, and oversized vehicles like RVs have paid parking options. Parking fee is $10, no overnight parking. RVs and motorcycles park in designated areas.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
The Space Mirror Memorial, situated on the grounds of the John F. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on Merritt Island, Florida, is a poignant and elegantly designed national memorial that honors the lives of astronauts who have died in the line of duty. This striking monument, designed by Wes Jones of Holt Hinshaw Pfau Jones, stands as a blend of art and science, reflecting the sky and the surrounding landscape with its polished black granite surface.
The memorial itself is a vast expanse of mirror-finished granite, 42.5 feet tall and 50 feet wide, divided into 90 panels. The names of 25 astronauts are intricately cut through the surface, filled with translucent acrylic and backlit with LED lights, creating an ethereal glow that seems to float in the reflection of the sky. A granite wall adjacent to the memorial features pictures and brief biographies of those honored, adding a personal touch to the tribute.
Set near a serene lagoon, the Space Mirror Memorial is part of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation property, which also includes the Center for Space Education. The memorial is open 365 days a year, allowing visitors to pay their respects at any time. The area is tranquil, with the memorial’s design ensuring that the names appear to blend seamlessly into the sky, creating a sense of continuity between the earthly and celestial realms.
For those seeking a deeper connection, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers a wealth of educational programs and exhibits. Nearby, the NASA Center for Space Education provides additional insights into space exploration. This memorial is a must-visit for anyone interested in space history and the sacrifices made by those who have pushed the boundaries of human knowledge. As the light changes throughout the day, the memorial transforms, making each visit a unique and moving experience.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 1 700 000
- Established year
- 1991
Top 3 Facts about Space Mirror Memorial
The memorial initially featured a sun-tracking mechanism using motors and jackscrews to direct sunlight through acrylic panels, but it failed in 1997, and subsequent repair costs of around $700,000 led to its abandonment in favor of 24-hour LED lighting.
This memorial site is set amidst a diverse ecosystem, home to the majestic American bald eagle and a variety of flora. The area’s natural beauty is underscored by the presence of native wildlife, including birds and fish in the adjacent waterways. The landscape is dotted with unique flora, creating a serene and reflective atmosphere that complements the memorial’s solemn beauty.
The Space Mirror Memorial is set against the backdrop of the Indian River Lagoon, where the waters shimmer in a range of blues, from azure to cobalt. The lagoon, a vital estuary, is home to a diverse array of marine life and spans approximately 156 miles along Florida’s east coast. The surrounding landscape is characterized by flat, coastal plains, with the memorial itself standing as a poignant contrast to the natural beauty of its surroundings.
Family programs
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Self-guided Tours
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in spring to avoid summer heat. Allow a few hours to explore; arrive early to secure parking. Wear comfortable shoes for paved pathways. Bring snacks, as options are limited. Attend the annual Astronaut Hall of Fame induction for added insight.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for Florida’s variable weather, comfortable shoes, and a hat for outdoor ceremonies. Bring sunscreen and water for a day trip; camping gear if staying longer. Check the season for specific needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect local flora and fauna by staying on designated paths, avoiding loud noises, and not feeding wildlife. In urban areas, dispose of trash properly and respect nearby green spaces to maintain the area’s integrity. Be mindful of seasonal weather conditions to minimize your impact.
Stay Informed
Be mindful of uneven paths and ledges, and stay informed about weather conditions. Avoid approaching water or hot springs. For emergencies, call 1.855.KSC.VISIT.
Seasons
Visit in spring (February to May, 70-80°F) for mild weather and the annual Day of Remembrance ceremony, honoring fallen astronauts with a poignant tribute. Ideal time to reflect and explore the solemn beauty of this memorial.
Visit in summer for a poignant experience amid sweltering Florida heat (90s°F). Attend the Summer Series in August, a tribute to space exploration. Though hot and humid, the solemn NASA Day of Remembrance ceremony in January is a precursor to the summer’s educational programs.
Visit in fall, when mild temperatures (70s-80s Fahrenheit) and clear skies enhance the reflective beauty of this memorial. Attend the NASA Day of Remembrance in January, but enjoy the serene autumn atmosphere from September to November. Ideal for a contemplative visit.
Visit in winter (December to February) when mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and clear skies enhance the reflective beauty of this memorial, making the glowing names of astronauts standout against the winter sky. A serene and poignant experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Space Mirror Memorial has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the Space Mirror Memorial is Titusville, Florida, which is near the Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island.
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Dogs are not allowed, but guide dogs are permitted. There is an on-site air-conditioned pet kennel available for other pets.
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You can park motorhomes, camper vans, and other oversized vehicles at the Kennedy Space Center’s Visitor Complex, which has paid parking facilities for these types of vehicles. However, there is no specific mention of overnight parking for RVs or trailers at this location.
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The Space Mirror Memorial is important because it honors the 25 astronauts who have sacrificed their lives for the advancement of human spaceflight, particularly after the Space Shuttle Challenger accident in 1986. Dedicated by Vice President Dan Quayle in 1991, it was designated a national memorial by Congress and President George Bush, serving as a tribute to these pioneers and inspiring future generations of space explorers. The memorial is a unique blend of art and science, featuring names illuminated 24 hours a day, symbolizing their lasting impact on space exploration.