Myths & Missions: Ancient Greece and NASA’s journey to the Moon

On View June 13, 2026 Through

Located in the LASM Collection Gallery

Since the dawn of the space age, NASA has drawn upon the rich tapestry of ancient Greco-Roman mythology to name its most ambitious missions.

From Apollo to Artemis, these legendary names carry profound symbolic weight, connecting humanity's greatest technological achievements to timeless stories of gods, heroes, and cosmic wonder. NASA's mission names aren't random—each draws powerful symbolism from the stories of ancient Greece and Rome that reflects the mission's purpose
and goals.
Humans have always been fascinated with what is out there in the sky. Apollo's light guided lunar exploration. Artemis marks humanity's return to the Moon. Mercury honors swift orbital flights.
Ancient stories continue to guide humanity's greatest adventures and inspire humans to look beyond our planet.

Since the dawn of the space age, NASA has drawn upon the rich tapestry of ancient Greco-Roman mythology to name its most ambitious missions.

From Apollo to Artemis, these legendary names carry profound symbolic weight, connecting humanity's greatest technological achievements to timeless stories of gods, heroes, and cosmic wonder. NASA's mission names aren't random—each draws powerful symbolism from the stories of ancient Greece and Rome that reflects the mission's purpose
and goals.
Humans have always been fascinated with what is out there in the sky. Apollo's light guided lunar exploration. Artemis marks humanity's return to the Moon. Mercury honors swift orbital flights.
Ancient stories continue to guide humanity's greatest adventures and inspire humans to look beyond our planet.

No items found

Thank you to our sponsors

No items found
About the Exhibit

No item found