Visitor Information

Launch Information

Our most recent launch manifest may be found HERE! However, launches are always subject to change depending on weather or last minute technical challenges. Please be sure to check this web site or telephone 757-824-2050 for up-to-the-minute scheduled launch information. Mission and payload information may also be found on the website.

Viewing Launches

To best view our launches we recommend visiting the NASA Wallops Visitors Center on Route 175 off U.S. Route 13 in Virginia or the Assateague Island National Seashore Park. Additionally, from anywhere along the Delmarva Peninsula - (ocean side), a good view is offered looking southward along the MARS launch trajectory. We recommend to the viewer that you bring the following: sunscreen, sun glasses, bug repellent, a good book, a beach chair or blanket and a mobile phone with which to check the launch schedule (757-824-2050) periodically - there may be delays.

Group Tours and Security

Our partner, NASA Wallops Flight Facility welcomes tour groups, especially student groups. Please contact the Visitor Center at least 2 weeks prior to your visit. Group tours are scheduled based on availability. Currently, visitors are not allowed unescorted on the Main Base or the Island where the launch pads are located. Groups interested in scheduled tours may contact the Public Affairs Office. For additional information on education programs offered by NASA Wallops please check the NASA Wallops web site.

Group Tours Contact: Phone: (757) 824-2298

Advance planning is required.

NASA/Wallops Visitor Center

The Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center and Gift Shop is located on Virginia Route #175 east off US Route 13, about 1 mile from the Wallops Flight Facility Main Gate. The Visitor Center, Gift Shop, and Education Resource Center are all part of the Robert L. Krieger Education Center. A collection of spacecraft and flight articles, as well as exhibits about the United States space flight program, is on display. Special movies and video presentations may be viewed; also special events such as model rocket launches are often scheduled. There is no admission to enter this facility. For further information phone 757-824-1344 or visit the web site.

Local Information

For information on lodging, dining, recreational activities, please go to any of the following web sites:

Spaceport Location

Bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Chesapeake Bay on the West, the Eastern Shore is a quiet place of great natural beauty. A rich history graces the area with numerous historic homes, churches, museums, and landmarks inviting visitors to explore the past. Major festivals and events are stage annually by local communities to celebrate the heritage of the area. The outdoorsman will find excellent fishing, crabbing, camping, hunting, boating, and swimming. Just sixty miles south of MARS is the famed Bay Creek Resort, ranked 12th nationally by Golf World Magazine. Ninety-six miles to the south sits the resort town of Virginia Beach, Virginia. Heading to the north is Ocean City, Maryland. Both ocean side towns offer many attractions including convention centers providing named entertainment, concerts, and cultural events.

Learn More About MARS

For more information on MARS' development over the years, visit our History page.

For more information on Wallops Flight Facility, our nation's oldest and most prolific launch site, visit NASA's Wallops Island History page.

We hope you find this information helpful. We welcome your suggestions and additions. Please share them with us at info@marsspaceport.com.

View our MARS Facts PDF