What do you remember about seeing NASA countdowns to liftoff, moon landings, and splashdowns?
Since my dad’s birthday last weekend, I’ve been thinking I’d like to ask him. But this Sunday will be the first Father’s Day without him; a year ago, I think we all took for granted that we’d have more time.
The NASA | ART exhibition would’ve been a perfect conversation starter for me and my dad. Some of our best talks flowed from doing things side by side: fishing from a dock, painting sealant on a cabin, watching a basketball or football game together.
I can envision walking through the Woodson Art Museum galleries with him, asking him what he recalls about Neil Armstrong’s moon walk and comment: “That’s one small step for man; one giant leap for mankind.”
Where was he in 1986 when Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart just after liftoff?
As somebody who traveled to the Soviet Union several times throughout his career, what did he think of the space race?
I couldn’t possibly have asked him everything I’d want to know, even though we had nearly half a century together. I sure am thankful for all those talks we did have.
Maybe that’s why every time I see fathers, grandpas, and children strolling the galleries and gardens and playing in Art Park, it makes me smile.
I’m glad they’re enjoying one another’s company at the Art Museum and making lots of memories while they can.
Here’s wishing all fathers and families Happy Father’s Day. Plan a Woodson Art Museum visit during these last days of the NASA | ART exhibition, and have an out-of-this-world time together!
P.S. Don’t be shy about sharing your special Father’s Day memories; let us hear from you.
