Dinosaurs to storm Air Force museum galleries June 12

Visitors can learn about science of paleontology
“Operation: Dinosaur” will spotlight the science of paleontology at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force June 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

“Operation: Dinosaur” will spotlight the science of paleontology at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force June 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

National Museum of the U.S. Air Force visitors will have a unique opportunity to see dinosaurs in the museum’s galleries during “Operation: Dinosaur” on June 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. The museum will close at 8 p.m.

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force often focuses its events and programs on STEM – science, technology, engineering and math. This time the museum will focus on an area of science it doesn’t often get a chance to explore – paleontology. In addition to learning about the nuts and bolts of aircraft, visitors can learn about the fossils and bones of dinosaurs.

During this free event visitors can see a carnotaurus, raptor, baby raptor, stegosaurus, triceratops and tyrannosaurus rex. These realistic dinosaurs, presented by T.A.G. Art Company, can be as big as 9 feet tall. They can move, blink, open their mouths and roar! Bldg. 2 has been designated a “roar-free” zone for visitors who may have sensory-sensitivity.

Other activities for kids and families to enjoy during the evening include a dinosaur question game, tornado demonstration, youth fossil dig and dinosaur-related giveaways (while supplies last).

During the free event visitors can see a carnotaurus, raptor, baby raptor, stegosaurus, triceratops and tyrannosaurus rex. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

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In addition, a paleontologist and geologist from the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery will join the event and share their knowledge of dinosaurs.

The museum simulators are adding prehistoric-themed rides to their line-up to include a movie ride titled “Dino Safari” and a virtual reality ride titled “Dive in Prehistoric Seas VR” (There is a cost per ride).

The Museum Store will remain open until 8 p.m. The Valkyrie Café will remain open until 7:30 p.m. and will add dino nuggets to their menu for this event.

T.A.G. Art Company has asked for help from the museum’s visitors to name the male triceratops. The museum will launch information about naming the dinosaur on their Facebook page on Wednesday, June 2.

For more information on this event, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Upcoming/Operation-Dinosaur/.

Some materials for the program are being provided through the generosity of the Air Force Museum Foundation Inc. (Federal endorsement not implied).

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, is the world’s largest military aviation museum. With free admission and parking, the museum features more than 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles and thousands of artifacts amid more than 19 acres of indoor exhibit space. Each year thousands of visitors from around the world come to the museum. For more information, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

Please note: Springfield Street, the road that leads to the museum’s entrance, is undergoing construction through the beginning of September. Expect lane reductions and some delays. Please follow the signs and instructions provided by the road crews.

The main phone number to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is temporarily out of service. To call the museum please use (937) 255-8606.

These realistic dinosaurs, presented by T.A.G. Art Company, can be as big as 9 feet tall. They can move, blink, open their mouths and roar! Bldg. 2 has been designated a “roar-free” zone for visitors who may have sensory-sensitivity. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

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