Have you ever wondered what life is like for an astronaut? What does our Earth look like from the vastness of space? And what exactly is a “spacewalk”? These intriguing questions invite us to explore the extraordinary experiences of those who venture beyond our planet’s atmosphere.

As the Athens Science Festival 2024 eagerly awaits the arrival of a distinguished astronaut, we are invited to embark on a journey beyond the confines of our world, delving into the exciting realm of space exploration and discovery.

Rex Walheim is a former NASA astronaut who flew on three Space Shuttle missions to the International Space Station. He has spent a total of 36 days in space and conducted five spacewalks. Rex Walheim will be at the Athens Science Festival to share his own “Tale of Change” titled “Flying in Space”. He will discuss the evolution of space flights from the Space Shuttle program to commercial space flights and the Axiom Space Station. He will share his experiences flying on the last Space Shuttle flight, as well as his preparations before the flight and spacewalks.

We look forward to discovering more about the evolution of space exploration from the past to the future!

The Athens Science Festival, in collaboration with the Hellenic Space Center and Axiom Space, brings to Athens astronaut Rex Walheim, who has participated in three NASA missions to the International Space Station and five spacewalks. After retiring from the astronaut corps, Walheim served as the Deputy Director of Safety and Mission Assurance at the Johnson Space Center. He is a retired U.S. Air Force colonel and currently works at AXIOM as the Chief of Safety.

Saturday, April 20 | “Miltiadis Evert” Amphitheater | 20:30 – 21:15

Want more Tales of Change? The Athens Science Festival returns to Technopolis City of Athens from April 16 to 21, 2024, with interactive exhibits, impressive experiments, workshops for children and adults, lectures, and experiential activities. Check out the program here and book your ticket today!