What if the excitement of a museum field trip could come right to a child’s school? Our Mission Control mobile classroom does just that, traveling throughout San Diego County to bring hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) experiences directly to children who might not otherwise have access to them. From rural communities and Title I schools to libraries, after-school programs, and community events, Mission Control removes barriers to learning and helps children discover the excitement of aviation and space exploration. By sparking curiosity at a young age and building on that knowledge as students grow, we are helping inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

As we look ahead to early 2027, several of our current grants will be coming to an end, but the need for these programs continues to grow. Through Robotics for All, we have expanded opportunities for students to explore robotics, coding, and engineering through hands-on activities that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and perseverance. Our County of San Diego grant supports early literacy by bringing engaging books and hands-on learning experiences to preschool and kindergarten classrooms, helping young children build literacy skills while exploring the basics of engineering. These programs lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning, and with additional donations, we can continue bringing these valuable experiences to children long after the grant funding ends.

We are also excited to expand access through a Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD) grant supporting students in self-contained classrooms. For children with special needs who may not have the opportunity to leave their school environment for a field trip, Mission Control brings the museum to them. These experiences are designed to meet students where they are, providing opportunities to explore, create, and participate in meaningful STEM learning in a familiar setting. Together, these grants will help us reach more children, create new opportunities, and ensure that every student has a chance to experience the wonder of discovery.

Your donations help keep this mission moving forward. Grants open doors, but community support helps sustain the people, transportation, equipment, and materials needed to deliver these programs. Your generosity allows us to continue reaching rural communities, supporting students with diverse learning needs, introducing preschoolers to the joy of books and engineering, and inspiring future innovators through robotics and hands-on exploration. As we continue these exciting initiatives in 2027, please consider making a donation to the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Together, we can bring learning beyond the classroom, nurture curiosity from the earliest years, and make the wonders of science and aviation accessible to more children throughout San Diego County. Thank you for helping us keep Mission Control—and young minds—moving forward!