Colorado Springs Military Newspaper Group

Peterson Space Observer

Spaced Out blasts off

By A1C Alexus Wilcox | Peterson-Schriever Garrison public affairs

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — Children and adults across the Peterson-Schriever Garrison will kickoff the Spaced Out program with an opening reception on May 7, 2021, at the Peterson Air Force Base Hub.

Spaced Out is a weeklong series of events that is intended to strengthen the P-S GAR community by learning the isolation resiliency tactics of astronauts.

“We discovered that astronauts had sound advice for us; their experiences showed us a way out of the stress,” said Margie Arnold, 21st Force Support Squadron marketing editor. “We want to share that message with whomever we can, that having to confine ourselves to help stop the spread of the coronavirus [COVID-19] can be challenging, but there are ways we can do it safely and successfully.”

The opening “Blast Off” reception features special guest, Louis “Lou” Ramon, NASA engineer for nearly 50 years, who will talk about the human challenges of space exploration.

Additionally, individuals who picked up a “launch box” will have the opportunity to show the audience what items they would bring if they were to travel to space.

The idea for Spaced Out originated when Arnold was scrolling online and came across an article titled, ‘I Spent A Year In Space, and I Have Tips on Isolation to Share’ by former astronaut Scott Kelly.

One part of the opening reception, specifically inspired by Kelly, is the “Call for Art” exhibit, where individuals across the garrison will showcase their space themed art.

“In his tips on isolation, Kelly said, ‘You need a hobby,’ and suggested we ‘try a craft,’ or ‘make some art,’” Arnold said. “It will be fun to see where the space theme and peoples’ imaginations have taken them.”

Following the day of the opening reception, will be other events such as the Spaced Out quest, solar telescoping, magic and a movie, and more.

“We hope the Spaced Out events encourage people to come out of their homes, connect with one another safely and have fun,” Arnold said. “We hope people realize that while we are sometimes forced to stay home in order to be safe [from COVID-19], we are not alone.”

The Spaced Out team have a plethora of supporting agencies, teams, volunteers and sponsors who came together to bring the events to life, including support from garrison leadership.

All events, except the opening reception, are free to attend, but participants must pre-register. For more details on each event and registration links visit www.21fss.com.

Spaced Out blasts off
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