CHARLOTTE, NC (September 9, 2025) – Discovery Place Science invites explorers of all ages to embark on a fascinating journey through the skies and cosmos with the opening of “Above and Beyond,” an interactive aerospace exhibition launching at the Museum on Saturday, October 18.

“‘Above and Beyond’ isn’t just an exhibition, it’s an experience designed to inspire wonder across generations,” said Catherine Wilson Horne, president & CEO of Discovery Place. “This exhibition invites our community to discover how aerospace innovations have shaped our world, from the earliest days of flight to the cutting edge of space exploration. It’s a chance to dream bigger, think farther and imagine what comes next.”

Produced by Evergreen Exhibitions in association with Boeing, in collaboration with NASA and the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, “Above and Beyond” celebrates the incredible innovations that have shaped flight – from the earliest dreams of the Wright brothers to today’s space exploration and tomorrow’s cutting-edge aviation technologies.

Guests will explore the frontiers of air and space travel through immersive simulations, hands-on design challenges and dynamic storytelling that brings the history and future of aerospace to life. The journey begins in a wraparound immersive theater, then expands into five themed galleries featuring dozens of interactive stations.

Exhibition experiences include:
– Riding a simulated space elevator to the edge of Earth’s atmosphere
– Designing and testing a supersonic jet in a virtual high-speed flying challenge
– Exploring the forces of flight with a motion-sensing group flying experience
– Engaging with augmented reality to discover the science behind lift, drag, propulsion and more

“Sparking an interest in the wonder of aerospace at an early age is a priority for Boeing, and the ‘Above and Beyond’ exhibition provides future engineers, pilots or astronauts with an interactive glimpse into how they can achieve their dreams and inspires them to pursue careers in science and technology,” said Todd Citron, Ph.D., chief technology officer and vice president and general manager of Boeing Research & Technology.

Special lab experiences and programming: 
“Above and Beyond” will be open daily and on exhibition through April 19, 2026. The exhibition is included with general admission to Discovery Place Science and is free for Members.

Throughout the exhibition’s duration, Discovery Place Science will have special programming highlighting the world of aeronautics, from animals that fly to the earliest airplanes and the future of space exploration. Programs include observing flight mechanics in animals including birds, bats and insects; building prototype hydroponic gardens for growing food in space; completing hands-on engineering challenges that explore the forces of flight; exploring aircraft systems and the roles of aviation maintenance technicians; and experimenting with forces of pressure and the surprising ways suction, force and air pressure shape the world around us.

Media Preview + Images 
Media is invited by appointment to preview “Above and Beyond” on Friday, October 17 prior to its public opening on Saturday, October 18. Please contact Alyssa Mulliger, amulliger@discoveryplace.org, to schedule a walkthrough. Exhibition images for media use along with photo credits and captions are available here.  
 
About Discovery Place Science   
Discovery Place Science is the leading hub for science learning in the Carolinas—dedicated to the exchange of ideas, scientific exploration and creative expression to stimulate innovative problem-solving and learning. The Museum brings relevant, contemporary science to life through groundbreaking exhibitions, interactive educational programming and hands-on activities. Located in Uptown Charlotte at 168 W. 6th Street, convenient parking is available in the Museum’s parking deck—the Carol Grotnes Belk Complex—at the corner of Sixth and Church streets. For more information about Discovery Place Science, visit discoveryplace.org.  
 
About Boeing 
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity. Learn more at boeing.com.