German space exhibition plans virtual flight into space

With exhibits and the latest computer technology, the German Space Exhibition in Vogtland is planning a special space experience for guests. A new building is being constructed on the site in Muldenhammer for this purpose. "Visitors will be able to virtually recreate their own space travel," says Mayor Wolfgang Schädlich (non-party), explaining the multi-million euro project with a planned exhibition area of 1,000 square meters.

Interior construction is currently underway. The whole thing should be finished in summer 2026. The costs are estimated at 8.7 million euros and will be covered by the federal and state governments. Under the motto "Mission Space", various stations that space travelers have to go through could then be recreated in the rooms of the hall, adds exhibition director Katrin Trommer. To this end, visitors will undergo "realistic space training". They prepare themselves virtually for a flight into space with tips on nutrition, health checks and luggage selection. At the end, the last room offers real satellite images and "a spectacular view" of the Earth.

Virtual flight into space

Astronauts and their trainers will impart knowledge via screens in the respective rooms. Trommer: "We want to show how comprehensive and exciting the topic is." Other experts such as engineers and psychologists will also provide information. The exhibition is being created in collaboration with scientists from the TU Bergakademie Freiberg, the European Space Agency ESA and the German Aerospace Center.

The topic of private space travel will also be addressed, adds Trommer. "More and more people all over the world are interested in this." Private companies, well-known tech billionaires from the USA and start-ups for space technology regularly make the news. "We want to address this and summarize the developments. And think about exciting questions, such as whether it will be possible to grow plants on the moon at some point and under what conditions." The aim is to "nudge" interest in space technology, especially among children and young people: "Also because you can study relevant professions in Saxony today."

First German in space forms the basis of the exhibition

A room will continue to be dedicated to the first German in space, Sigmund Jähn (1937-2019), in the existing exhibition, emphasizes Mayor Schädlich. Jähn grew up in the village of Morgenröthe-Rautenkranz, today a district of Muldenhammer. On August 26, 1978, he was launched into space on the Russian spacecraft "Soyuz 31". He went on to enjoy cult status in the GDR. Just one year later, a small private exhibition about him as a space traveler was set up in his home village in Vogtland.

Over the decades, visitor interest in space and Jähn has remained unbroken, says Trommer. Around 60,000 visitors flock to the German Space Exhibition every year. And the exhibition in the existing building, which is soon to be connected to the newly built hall, will also be spruced up, says the exhibition director. An additional 90,000 euros are available for this through a funding program. New information boards, graphics for children, QR codes and illustrative material will be added to the collection.