Visitors flock to see Lockheed Martin's DARKSTAR and NASA's X-38 exhibit
- Viewing days for Lockheed Martin's DARKSTAR and NASA's X-38 has been extended due to high visitor demand.
- The X-38 is an 80% prototype of NASA's International Space Station Crew Return Vehicle, of which only three were built.
- The museum's collection includes over 80 vintage aircraft and diverse displays, enhancing its appeal to aviation enthusiasts.
In the United States, particularly in Palm Springs, California, a significant public interest has necessitated the extension of viewing days for two remarkable aeronautical exhibits. The Palm Springs Air Museum, which showcases a wide variety of vintage aircraft, has extended its viewing period of Lockheed Martin's DARKSTAR and NASA's X-38 International Space Station Crew Return Vehicle prototype due to high demand from visitors. The exhibits were originally scheduled for a limited time, but the influx of attendees eager to see these unique aircraft pushed the museum to accommodate this interest by extending the viewing through April 25, 2025. Lockheed Martin's DARKSTAR was manufactured specifically for a major motion picture, which has added to its allure as a part of the museum's presentation. The X-38 is noteworthy in its own right with its status as an 80% prototype of NASA’s International Space Station Crew Return Vehicle. It is significant to mention that NASA only created a total of three prototypes of the X-38 before discontinuing the program, marking the rarity and historical value of the X-38 exhibit at the museum. The Palm Springs Air Museum was selected by NASA to house one of these prototypes following a competitive proposal process, further emphasizing the institution's credibility and importance in preserving aeronautical history. The Palm Springs Air Museum offers a diverse collection of over 80 vintage airframes, most notably from the eras of World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and Operation Freedom. Additionally, the museum features the F-117 Stealth Fighter displayed inside The Jim Houston Pavilion, along with other flying and static aircraft showcased in its expansive 91,000 square feet of hangars and on the tarmac. This richness in displays, alongside the addition of the DARKSTAR and X-38, positions the museum as a significant destination for aviation enthusiasts and families alike. The museum is open daily and provides free admission for children 12 and under when accompanied by a paid adult. The welcoming environment permits pets on leashes, and the museum offers free parking with a limited number of wheelchairs available to visitors. For anyone interested in exploring the history of aviation or simply enjoying an engaging day out, the Palm Springs Air Museum stands as an ideal location to witness monumental technological advancements and historical artifacts, culminating in a unique learning experience for all visitors.