Space Fans of All Ages Mingle Among Astronauts
A Weekend Full of Adventure, Stories, and New Memories

Astronauts and space guests touched down on the Space Coast this November to meet their biggest fans at ASF’s annual Astronaut Autograph and Memorabilia Show (AAMS). The show, in its sixth year running, is anticipated by space fans from around the world. This year’s festivities took place on November 7-10, with the show itself open at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (KSCVC) on November 9-10.

ASF’s tiered ticket packages catered to space fanatics and casual enthusiasts alike. Those looking to attend only the autograph show at KSCVC were able to purchase One Day or Weekend passes, and those looking for a more out-of-this-world experience claimed Gold, Platinum, or Platinum Plus tickets. Each of these tiers offered a different level of involvement..

The action began on the night of Thursday, Nov. 7 with a special Space Jeopardy hosted by Apollo 16 Moonwalker Charlie Duke. Teams of Platinum Plus and Platinum guests vied for the title of space trivia champions during the light-hearted game.

Platinum Plus guests were treated Friday morning to an exclusive, private tour of KSCVC’s new Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, led by astronaut Tom Jones.

Friday night was the setting of a classy VIP reception for the astronauts, Platinum Plus, and Platinum guests. Attendees mixed and mingled with the astronauts while dining on buffet-style delicacies. ASF Chairman, Space Shuttle astronaut Dan Brandenstein, formally introduced those present to ASF’s new Executive Director, Tammy Knowles.

For most, the highlight of the event is truly the show itself, held on KSCVC’s campus. The show – which took place over the weekend – featured autograph sessions, photo opportunities, lectures from the astronauts themselves, a unique space auction, and an exhibitor hall. The show is open to the public, and ASF patrons, interested locals, and KSCVC guests were all welcome to meet the astronauts present.

All together, this year’s AAMS garnered $109,000 for the Foundation. All proceeds from AAMS ticket sales benefit the ASF and support our goal of providing scholarships to exceptional college students pursuing degrees in STEM fields.

The dinner program for Gold, Platinum, and Platinum Plus guests this year was “A Tribute to the Right Stuff,” a vintage-themed look back to the 1960s, honoring the heroes of the early space program. Launch commentator Jack King led astronauts Gene Cernan and Dick Gordon – along with original NASA astronaut nurse, Dee O’Hara – in a panel discussion remembering the people, challenges, and stories that defined the early days of space exploration.

The night ended with a raffle drawing – followed by a surprise live auction of the raffle prize after it was generously donated back by the winner – and a few words by Laura Shepard Churchley, daughter of Mercury 7 astronaut Alan Shepard, about a unique donation: a replica of the golf club that her father used to take a swing on the Moon. The event was sponsored by James Long, Embraer, Hubble Huggers, First Photo Studio, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Fineline Printing, and Radisson Resort at the Port.