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Space Toys

8 Sep 2011

In America, the Space Age began at Cape Canaveral. Launches into outer space were a novel event in news headlines of the day and were seen as evidence that a new era of progress had arrived.

Excitement surrounding space exploration and travel showed up in everyday American life in many ways. Eager to associate themselves with the Space Age, companies began marketing household products in the same light demonstrated by space launches. Souvenirs were popular, building on the burgeoning interest in all things space. Space toys, based on the popularity of Tom Corbett and Buck Rogers, began reflecting a new "technical reality" which introduced youngsters to the realities of space hardware.

Today, artifacts of that era provide unique insight into the impact Cape Canaveral had on America at the beginning of the Space Age.

The items in this exhibit offer a glimps of years past when America was just learning "how to fly" in outer space. So, strap on your Satellite Jump Shoes and charge up your ray gun. Come on down to the History Center for a look back at your good old days.