Originally called the Redstone Arsenal, the Marshall Space Flight Center manages propulsion elements for the space shuttle, and scientific aspects of the International Space Station. The Marshall Space Center searches for scientific breakthroughs in space, hoping to improve the quality of life on earth. NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center develops transportation and propulsion systems, the infrastructure for space stations and spacecraft, applied materials and manufacturing methods, and scientific research on spacecraft, instruments and very big complex systems. The Marshall Space Flight Center is one of NASA’s largest and most diversified operations. It is dedicated to contributing its collective ingenuity, expertise and energy to the Vision for Space Exploration, which seeks to extend the reach of humanity across the solar system. Marshall Space Flight Center technology is exported world wide, while at the same time it is enhanced by developments and discoveries made elsewhere. The Marshall Space Flight Center has been a major contributor to many NASA projects, including the mission to put a man into outer space, and the Apollo expeditions to the moon.

Where the heck is the Marshall Space Flight Center located? The Marshall Space Flight Center is in Huntsville, Alabama. It also has facilities in Louisiana and Mississippi.

How is the Marshall Space Flight Center funded? Funding for the Marshall Space Flight Center comes from the United States government. Funds are approved by Congress. In 2005 Teledyne Brown, a Marshall Space Flight Center contractor, was awarded an extended contract because the company had contributed quality service at minimal cost.

What is the story behind the Marshall Space Flight Center groundwater contamination? Over a period of years, before the potentially harmful results were known, waste management activities at the Marshall Space Flight Center involved the disposal of toxic substances in such a way that the groundwater became contaminated. Since the danger was discovered, NASA has been working on processes to clean up the pollution.

Are there Marshall Space Center tours? Bus tours are provided by the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. Among other things, visitors can see mock-ups of space station engineering and assembly buildings, and “the world’s flattest floor” where testing is done on robotic spacecraft technology.

Does the Marshall Space Flight Center provide child care for employees? The Marshall Space Flight Center child care facility is located on-site, and is called the Launching Pad. It is available for employees’ children aged six weeks to five years.

For a Marshall Space Flight Center map, go to the NASA website.