SENSORY GUIDE

A Resource for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities

Including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex underwent an onsite review conducted

by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards
(IBCCES), a cognitive disorder training and certification organization.

The visitor complex is now a Certified Autism Center™, a welcoming space for
people with autism and sensory needs.

CONTENTS

Sensory Advisory Map......................................................................................................... 3

Preparing For Your Visit...................................................................................................... 4

Peak Seasons.................................................................................................................... 4

Preparing for Meals........................................................................................................ 4

Weather............................................................................................................................... 4

Download Our App......................................................................................................... 4

Security Screening.......................................................................................................... 4

Plan Your Day.......................................................................................................................... 5

Arrival Information.......................................................................................................... 5

Navigating the Visitor Complex................................................................................. 5

Other Considerations........................................................................................................... 6

Lost Persons...................................................................................................................... 6

Rocket Launches............................................................................................................. 6

Sensory Level Summary...................................................................................................... 7

Attractions................................................................................................................................ 8

About IBCCES.......................................................................................................................22

2 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

SENSORY ADVISORY MAP

SENSORY AREA

SENSORY AREA
IMAX

GUEST SERVICES

WILL CALL
Exploring With

INFORMATION

MINUTE SECONDS
HOUR

MAIN VISITOR COMPLEX

TR
AIN
TR
AC
K

APOLLO/SATURN V CENTER

SENSORY GUIDE 3
PREPARING FOR YOUR VISIT
ARRIVAL WEATHER
• Buy tickets online in advance to avoid ticket Florida weather can be unpredictable. Being
window lines. prepared for sun, heat and rain/thunderstorms
• Transportation information and maps can be are all important for our guests’ comfort. We
found at KennedySpaceCenter.com under “Visitor also recommend you bring bug spray and wear
Information” comfortable shoes!
• The visitor complex opens at 9:00 AM daily with
the presentation of our National Anthem over DOWNLOAD THE APP
speakers. Minimize security lines by arriving Before you arrive, we recommend
after 9:00 AM. Read more about our security you download the Kennedy
screening on the following page. Space Center Guide app to your
smartphone. The app includes
features like GPS-enabled
PEAK SEASONS wayfinding, multi-layered maps, and
Generally, the following times of year see the attraction and event information.
highest visitation at the visitor complex. If crowds
are challenging to navigate, we suggest visiting
during a time of year that is outside these time-
periods*:
• New Year’s Week
• March – April (Spring Break season)
• Thanksgiving Week
• The month of December
• The week between Christmas and New Year’s

*Please note that rocket launches, special SECURITY SCREENING

events, holidays and special offers may bring Kennedy Space Center is protected as a federal
increased crowds to the visitor complex, and government facility. All visitors must pass through a
the above information is only a guideline. Check metal-detecting magnetometer screening device and
the Event Calendar before arrival to get a better all bags, backpacks and other items may be opened
understanding of what to expect during your visit. and inspected at the discretion of security officers.

The following items are not permitted at Kennedy

PREPARING FOR MEALS Space Center Visitor Complex:
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has
numerous on-site cafes for breakfast, lunch and/ • Firearms of any type, including law
or snacks throughout the day. We offer vegetarian, enforcement visitors or accompanying
vegan and gluten-free menu items at the following groups.
locations: • Ammunition of any type
• Pepper or Mace sprays
• Gluten-free and Vegan: Orbit Cafe and Space • Knives of any type, including any item with
Bowl Bistro a blade
• Vegetarian: All dining locations except Red • Glass containers
Rock Grill • Alcoholic beverages
• Dairy-Free: Options at every dining location • UAS or drones are strictly prohibited and
will be confiscated if operated on
However, guests are also welcomed to bring their Kennedy Space Center property
own food and drink as long as there are no glass
containers or bottles, and everything fits in a hand- We welcome guests to bring soft-sided, lunch box-
held soft-sided cooler. Water bottle refill stations are style coolers for the food or beverages you wish to
located inside buildings throughout the complex. bring. However, large coolers, luggage and other
large bags are not permitted through the front gate.

4 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

PLAN YOUR DAY
ARRIVAL INFORMATION

• There are many designated disabled

parking spots near the entrance for
guests with disabilities. Wheelchairs from
Parking Lot 2 are available to use for
transportation to the entrance, but are not
for use within the visitor complex. Scooters
and wheelchairs may be rented inside the
Information building though quantities are
limited and are available on a first come,
first served basis.

• Noise-cancelling headphones may also be

rented inside Information, but there are a
limited number available. We encourage
guests to bring their own, but all are
welcome to use ours if needed.

NAVIGATING THE VISITOR COMPLEX

• The visitor complex is clutter-free and easy • The locations of the low sensory areas, family
to navigate, and the pathways are smooth restrooms, the nursing station and other
and obstruction-free. The colors, shapes, important services can be found on the maps
and surfaces encountered are to be throughout the visitor complex. A complete
expected for this type of attraction but can Sensory Map can also be found on page 3 of
be stimulating for some individuals. There this guide.
is varying music and sounds throughout,
as well as many interactive digital screens. • The Sensory Guide for each attraction is
displayed at its entrance. They are also listed, with
• Explore the exhibits and attractions at your additional details, on the following pages.
own pace. There are options for free play,
resting, exploration, and many interactive • If someone is unable to wait in the bus
and educational activities. boarding line, find a crewmember and
your party can be escorted to our stroller/
• Although most exhibits are inside, there wheelchair entrance. There is no separate
are numerous opportunities to move seating area aboard the buses. You may
indoors and outdoors. This may help those also pick up a Guest Accessibility Pass at
who wish to alternate the environment Information to help signal to crewmembers you
temperature, noise level, and lighting may need assistance.
according to their sensory needs.
• An adult changing table is accessible only in
• Currently, there are two low sensory the nurses station.
areas. They are located inside Space
Shuttle Atlantis and Gateway. Please find a • Re-entry is permitted. Retain your ticket and
crewmember to assist you. speak to a crewmember for a hand stamp.

• IMAX, Gateway, Planet Play and Apollo/ • Please visit Information, Guest Services or Will
Saturn V Center have family bathrooms. Call upon arrival if you need more information.
Our crewmembers will be happy to assist you.

SENSORY GUIDE 5
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
VISITOR COMPLEX STAFF
Staff members, or “crewmembers,” wear uniforms and nametags. The color of the uniform
varies based on the job, but all employees will have a clear nametag.

Those with specific autism training will have the following designation on their nametag:

LOST PERSONS
If you lose a member of your party, tell any crewmember. Staff have radios and can also
help make an announcement over the visitor complex loud speaker.

ROCKET LAUNCHES
Rocket launches happen frequently here on the Space Coast of Florida. This information
may be helpful for those with sensory needs:

• Rocket launches often attract larger crowds and increased traffic to the visitor
complex, but also the neighboring areas as well.
• Launches can be loud, as well as the sonic booms if boosters return to land at Cape
Canaveral Space Force Station.
• Launches can occur at any time of day or night, but if they occur within or close
to visitor complex operating hours, we usually open viewing areas for our guests.
Check the Event Calendar online to see if there may be a rocket launch during your
visit.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a working spaceflight facility. Therefore,

tours, events and programs may be altered or cancelled at any given time with no
notice.

6 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

SENSORY LEVEL SUMMARY
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex attractions are rated based on the sensory
stimulation of touch, taste, sound, sight and smell. The ratings are based on the perceived
intensity within the following range:
1 = Low Sensory Stimulation
10 = High Sensory Stimulation

Use the quick reference guide below for an overview of the attractions’ ratings. More
details are available in the following pages.

ATTRACTIONS TOUCH TASTE SOUND SIGHT SMELL

Heroes And Legends 3 1 5 3 1

Rocket Garden 2 1 5 2 1
Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex® 3 1 6 4 1
Spaceport KSC 5 1 6 8 1
It’s A Matter of Fact 2 1 3 4 1
All Systems Are Go! 2 1 4 5 1
Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour 2 1 5 4 1
Apollo/Saturn V Center 2 6 4 3 3
Apollo 8 and the Firing Room 2 1 7 6 1
Ad Astra Per Aspera 2 1 3 4 1
Lunar Theater 1 1 4 5 1
Treasures Gallery 2 1 3 2 1
Space Shuttle Atlantis® 4 1 5 4 1
Atlantis Pre-show Loud Volume and Extreme Motion of Visuals

Hubble Space Telescope Theater 1 1 4 4 1

Fiery Ride Home 4 1 4 3 1
Forever Remembered 1 1 2 3 1
Shuttle Launch Experience® 5 1 6 8 1
IMAX® 2 1 6 6 4
Planet Play 5 1 6 4 1
Journey To Mars 3 1 4 4 1
Space Mirror Memorial 1 1 2 2 1
Astronaut Training Experience® (add-on enhancement) 3 1 3 6 1

SENSORY GUIDE 7
HEROES AND LEGENDS

HEROES AND LEGENDS

Featuring the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame®, presented
by Boeing®
Relive America’s earliest space missions, learn the
qualities that define a hero and see space-flown
artifacts up close.

Bypass the attraction’s multi-sensory preshows by entering

from the bottom level through the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame.

Allow 1 Hour

TOUCH 3 TASTE 1 SOUND 5 SIGHT 3 SMELL 1

• Visitors can reach and • Low impact on this sense. • Multiple audio tracks can be • Blue lighting in some of • Low impact on this sense.
interact with this exhibit heard at the same time. the rooms.
at their leisure.
• Audio track played in • Indoor/overhead lighting.
• Explore at your own pace. enclosed space.
• Additional lighting from
• Visitors can interact with • Sound varies during film. exhibits.
digital touch screens.
• Potential for close proximity/ • Light is varied
shared space with other throughout the film.
visitors.

ROCKET GARDEN
Tour the Rocket Garden and walk among incredible,
authentic machines that pioneered America’s space
exploration. Behind every rocket seen here are great
men and women ­— engineers and astronauts, designers
and thinkers ­— who turned dreams into history.

Allow 20 Minutes

TOUCH 2 TASTE 1 SOUND 3 SIGHT 2 SMELL 1

• Visitors can walk among • Low impact on this sense. • Tour guides use a • Outdoors/natural lighting. • Low impact on this sense.
rockets. microphone for scheduled
presentations (four times • Viewing of several
• Explore at your own pace. a day). different life-sized rockets.

• Area generally a
quieter area in between
presentations.

8 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

GATEWAY®

GATEWAY: THE DEEP SPACE

LAUNCH COMPLEX®
Explore the future of space travel while highlighting
what is happening right now in our space program.
See the spacecraft of today and the visionary designs
paving the way of human deep space travel and
discover the current cutting-edge space exploration
innovations from NASA and commercial partners.

Allow 75 minutes if also riding Spaceport KSC

TOUCH 3 TASTE 1 SOUND 6 SIGHT 4 SMELL 1

• Visitors can explore • Low impact on this sense. • Sounds may echo indoors in • Indoor/overhead lighting. • Low impact on this sense.
artifacts and interactive this area.
exhibits. • Purple/blue additional
• Aerojet Rocketdyne exhibit: lighting.
• Visitors can step into a makes noises if a visitor is
space habitat, “try on” unsuccessful and makes • Some screens are
astronaut gloves and loud noises if the guest is featured as part of
experiment with digital successful. exhibits.
mission scenarios.

SPACEPORT KSC
Inside Gateway
Enter into the spaceport of the future and embark on
one of four incredible space journeys in Spaceport
KSC. Fly to destinations never-before explored such
as Mars, Trappist-1, a Horsehead Nebula, Saturn,
Jupiter, and more during this motion theater ride.

Allow 30 Minutes

TOUCH 5 TASTE 1 SOUND 6 SIGHT 8 SMELL 1

• Seats move and feet • Low impact on this sense. • Loud sounds and music are • Features large video • Low impact on this sense.
dangle during this featured during each of the screens and flashing
12-minute ride. 4 different rides. lights; simulates feeling of
movement.
• Choose between four • Potential for close
different 4D journeys . proximity/shared space • Indoor, confined space.
with other visitors.
• Must be 39in/99cm tall
to ride.

SENSORY GUIDE 9
UNIVERSE THEATER

IT’S A MATTER OF FACT

Inside Universe Theater
Learn what matter is in three states — solid, liquid, and
gas - and see experiments using liquid nitrogen through
engaging performances.

Check the Daily Schedule for showtimes.

Allow 45 MInutes

TOUCH 2 TASTE 1 SOUND 3 SIGHT 4 SMELL 1

• Visitors can sit and watch • Low impact on this sense. • Potential for close proximity/ • Indoor/overhead lighting. • Low impact on this sense.
the science experiments. shared space with other
visitors. • Potential for steam/
• Opportunity for selected fog (on stage) from
volunteers to assist in • Presenters use microphones. experiments.
experiments.
• Emphasis lighting
occasionally flashes
during experiments.

ALL SYSTEMS ARE GO!

Inside Universe Theater
Launch into space with the Peanuts® crew in an exciting
immersive experience featuring state-of-the-art
puppetry, lights, sounds.

Check the Daily Schedule for showtimes.

Allow 25 MInutes

TOUCH 2 TASTE 1 SOUND 4 SIGHT 5 SMELL 1

• Visitors can sit and watch • Low impact on this sense. • Potential for close proximity/ • Indoor/overhead lighting. • Low impact on this sense.
the show. shared space with other
visitors. • Features large screen
in background that at
• Sound is varied throughout times simulates feeling of
the performance. movement.

• Light is varied
throughout the
performance on stage.

10 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

APOLLO/SATURN V CENTER

APOLLO/SATURN V CENTER
Accessible via the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour
At the Apollo/Saturn V Center, stand in amazement
under the gigantic Saturn V Moon rocket. Celebrate
the unprecedented achievement of putting humans
on the Moon and the awe felt in that moment by all
humankind.

Allow 2 hours, including time spent on bus tour

TOUCH 2 TASTE 6 SOUND 4 SIGHT 3 SMELL 3

• Visitors can read and • Guests can enjoy a • Potential for close proximity/ • Viewing of several • Variety of smells from
interact with this exhibit variety of foods at the shared space with other different stationary food items being
at their leisure. cafe. visitors. exhibits. prepared and served near
cafe.
• Explore at your own pace. • Low impact on this sense. • Sounds may echo indoors in • Large rocket above head.
this large open area. • Low impact on this sense
• Some areas with in most areas.
spotlights.

• Indoor/overhead lighting.

APOLLO 8 AND THE FIRING ROOM

Inside the Apollo/Saturn V Center
Experience the countdown for Apollo 8 facing the
actual consoles used during the Apollo launches.
See and feel the simulation of the powerful Saturn
V Moon rocket lift off from the launch pad and blast
into space.

Speak to a crewmember if you wish to skip this experience.

Allow 20 Minutes

TOUCH 2 TASTE 1 SOUND 7 SIGHT 6 SMELL 1

• Visitors watch a film and • Low impact on this sense. • Sound varies throughout • Bright colors, videos and • Low impact on this sense.
simulation. the film/simulation. some flashing lights.

• Vibrations from the • Windows rattle loudly • Light is varied throughout

windows rattling can during 1 minute of the the film/simulation.
be felt in the seats simulation.
during 1 minute of the • Red lights illuminate the
presentation. • Potential for close room during 1 minute of
proximity/shared space the simulation.
• Few opportunities for with other visitors.
tactile engagement.

SENSORY GUIDE 11
APOLLO/SATURN V CENTER

AD ASTRA PER ASPERA

A Rough Road Leads to the Stars
Inside the Apollo/Saturn V Center
This tribute shares mementos of the fallen Apollo 1
astronauts’ lives and reminds us of the impact their
sacrifice made on the Apollo Program. Honor and learn
about the three men who gave the ultimate sacrifice:
Gus Grissom, Ed White and Roger Chaffee.

Allow 10 MInutes

TOUCH 2 TASTE 1 SOUND 3 SIGHT 4 SMELL 1

• Visitors can read and • Low impact on this sense. • Potential for close proximity/ • Guests walk through • Low impact on this sense.
interact with this exhibit shared space with other theatrical fog.
at their leisure. visitors.
• Indoor/overhead lighting.
• Visitors should be aware • Some background noise
of balance on metal from surrounding area. •Additional lighting for
walkway exiting exhibit. exhibit areas.

• Explore at your own pace.

LUNAR THEATER
Inside the Apollo/Saturn V Center
Using 3D theatrical elements blended with actual NASA
film footage and mission control recordings, the Lunar
Theater recreates events of that historic day in July 1969.
Apollo astronauts also share their memories from the
rarest of human experiences: walking on the Moon.

Allow 20 MInutes

TOUCH 1 TASTE 1 SOUND 4 SIGHT 5 SMELL 1

• Visitors watch a film and • Low impact on this sense. • Music and loud sounds • Videos are shown on three • Low impact on this sense.
simulation. are featured as part of the different screens.
attraction.
• Few opportunities for • Transitions from light to
tactile engagement. • Volume level varies dark.
throughout experience.
• Light is varied throughout
• Close proximity/shared the film/experience.
space with over visitors.

12 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

APOLLO/SATURN V CENTER

TREASURES GALLERY
Inside the Apollo/Saturn V Center
Get up close and personal with developmental
spacesuits, the Kitty Hawk Command Module and other
authentic artifacts of the Apollo Moon missions.

Allow 15 Minutes

TOUCH 2 TASTE 1 SOUND 3 SIGHT 2 SMELL 1

• Visitors can read and • Low impact on this sense. • Potential for close proximity/ • Viewing of several • Low impact on this sense.
walk through this exhibit shared space with other different stationary
at their leisure. visitors. artifacts.

• Explore at your own pace. • Sounds may echo indoors in • Some areas with
this area. spotlights.

• Indoor/overhead lighting.

SENSORY GUIDE 13
SPACE SHUTTLE ATLANTIS®

SPACE SHUTTLE ATLANTIS

Get a close-up view of Atlantis, the only space shuttle
displayed in flight. Space Shuttle Atlantis also includes
more than 60 interactive exhibits celebrating the
history, technology and impact of NASA’s Space
Shuttle Program.
The Space Shuttle Atlantis preshow has loud volume and
immersive moving imagery. To bypass the shows, please ask
the crewmember at the top of the ramp for assistance.

Allow 1 Hour
(90 minutes if also doing Shuttle Launch Experience)

TOUCH 4 TASTE 1 SOUND 5 SIGHT 4 SMELL 1

• Visitors can explore 60 • Low impact on this sense. • Music and loud sounds • Many interactive screens • Low impact on this sense.
interactive displays. are featured in some are featured in this area.
interactive displays.
• Visitors can interact with • Indoor/overhead lighting
digital touch screens and • Sounds may echo indoors with additional lighting
high-tech simulators. in this area. from interactive displays.

• Can crawl in ISS Triumph • Potential for close

of Technology. proximity/shared space
with other visitors.

FIERY RIDE HOME

Inside Space Shuttle Atlantis
Slide from one story to the next down this 22-degree
incline. That’s exactly the same angle the space shuttle
used on its final approach as it prepared to land on
Earth.

Allow 10 MInutes

TOUCH 4 TASTE 1 SOUND 4 SIGHT 3 SMELL 1

• Visitors can slide down • Low impact on this sense. • Areas can be busy if fully • Indoor/overhead lighting. • Low impact on this sense.
their choice of two tall utilized.
slides. • Some additional lighting
• Potential for close proximity/ in the background.
shared space with other
visitors.

14 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

SPACE SHUTTLE ATLANTIS®

HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE THEATER

Inside Space Shuttle Atlantis
Thanks to the Space Shuttle Program, the Hubble
telescope has been in operation longer than ever
expected. This short film details the challenges faced
as astronauts make the dangerous journey to service
the Hubble one last time.

Allow 8 Minutes

TOUCH 1 TASTE 1 SOUND 4 SIGHT 4 SMELL 1

• Visitors watch an • Low impact on this sense. • Sound is varied throughout • Light is varied throught the • Low impact on this sense.
8-minute movie. the film. 2D film.

• Few opportunities for • Potential for close

tactile engagement. proximity/shared space
with other visitors.

FOREVER REMEMBERED
Inside Space Shuttle Atlantis
Reflect on the Challenger and Columbia shuttle
astronauts who made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of
space exploration. See personal items and learn more
about each astronaut, then take a solemn moment to
view actual recovered pieces from the Columbia and
Challenger shuttles.

Allow 10 MInutes

TOUCH 1 TASTE 1 SOUND 2 SIGHT 3 SMELL 1

• Visitors can read and • Low impact on this sense. • This is a quieter area. • Indoor/overhead lighting • Low impact on this sense.
walk through this exhibit with additional lighting
at their leisure. • Potential for volume to from exhibits and screens.
rise as other guests move
throughout the exhibit.

• Audio track played.

SENSORY GUIDE 15
SPACE SHUTTLE ATLANTIS®

SPACE LAUNCH EXPERIENCE®

Inside Space Shuttle Atlantis
Strap in for a simulation of the space shuttle’s eight-
and-a-half-minute ascent into orbit! Enter the heart of
space shuttle operations for a prelaunch briefing. Once
on board, experience what veteran NASA astronauts
call the next best thing to flying aboard the space
shuttle.

Allow 30 Minutes

TOUCH 5 TASTE 1 SOUND 6 SIGHT 8 SMELL 1

• Riders are seated with a • Low impact on this sense. • Music and loud sounds • Features large video • Low impact on this sense.
lap bar and seatbelt for played in enclosed space. screens and flashing
the 8.5 minute ride. lights; simulates feeling of
• Potential for close movement.
• Seats will move and proximity/shared space with
shake. other visitors. • Indoor, confined space.

• Must be at least 44
inches/1.12 meters tall to
ride.

16 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

IMAX® AND PLANET PLAY

IMAX THEATER
Our five-story, 3D IMAX theater transports you to
space without ever leaving your seat. Designed to
mimic the interior of the International Space Station,
you’ll be immersed in another world as soon as you
enter the building.

Check the Daily Schedule for showtimes.

Allow 1 Hour

TOUCH 2 TASTE 1 SOUND 6 SIGHT 6 SMELL 4

• 3D glasses must be worn • Low impact on this sense. • Surround sound effects. • Features large video • Noticeable popcorn scent
for 3D experience. screen with engaging throughout the entrance
• Music and loud sounds vary visuals. area.
• Visitors sit and throughout the movie.
watch a 3D movie • 3D visuals can
for approximately 40 • Potential for close challenge one’s sense of
minutes. proximity/shared space with proprioception.
other visitors.
• Indoor/overhead lighting.

PLANET PLAY
Play on the planets in this fully immersive multiple-
story indoor play area where children ages 2-12 can
climb through a wormhole, walk on Saturn’s rings and
more. Numerous interactive games create a memorable
learning experience.

Allow 30 MInutes

TOUCH 5 TASTE 1 SOUND 6 SIGHT 4 SMELL 1

• Visitors ages 2-12 can • Low impact on this sense. • This can be a crowded and • Area features multiple • Low impact on this sense.
climb, slide, and explore active space. interactive screens.
interactive exhibits.
• Audio track played in • Dim indoor lighting
• Flooring is a rubberized enclosed space. with most lighting from
surface. exhibits.
• Additional sounds on slide
• Visitors can interact with and from exhibits.
digital touch screens and
games.

SENSORY GUIDE 17
JOURNEY TO MARS

JOURNEY TO MARS
Launched by United Launch Alliance
See the prototypes and designs that will launch our
space program to Mars and beyond. In an inspiring
show, learn about what it takes to explore the stars,
inspiring future generations to explore space.

Sensory Guide ratings reflects experience between shows.

Show includes loud audio and moving images on large
screens.

Allow 30 Minutes

TOUCH 3 TASTE 1 SOUND 4 SIGHT 4 SMELL 1

• Explore at your own pace. • Low impact on this sense. • Potential for close • Red overhead lighting. • Low impact on this sense.
proximity/shared space with
• Visitors can interact with other visitors. • Additional lighting from
digital touch screens and some exhibits.
simulations or sit and • Sounds may echo indoors in
watch a short film. this area. • Light is varied throughout
the film.

18 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

SPACE MIRROR MEMORIAL

SPACE MIRROR MEMORIAL

NASA’s fallen heroes are honored at this monument
to commemorate astronauts who gave their lives
in pursuit of knowledge that lies beyond Earth. The
memorial displays names of 25 astronauts, including
the crews of Apollo 1, STS-51L Challenger and STS-107
Columbia.

Allow 15 Minutes

TOUCH 1 TASTE 1 SOUND 2 SIGHT 2 SMELL 1

• Visitors can walk up the • Low impact on this sense. • This area is generally a • Visitors can read the • Low impact on this sense.
path to the reflection wall quieter area of the complex. illuminated names on the
area. wall.
• Some background noise
• Few opportunities for from guests in surrounding • Outdoor/natural lighting.
tactile engagement. areas.

SENSORY GUIDE 19
BUS TOUR

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER BUS TOUR

From the comfort of an air-conditioned motor coach,
view restricted areas of Kennedy Space Center like the
Vehicle Assembly Building. The bus tour drops you off at
the Apollo/Saturn V Center. Explore on your own and take
a return bus back to the main visitor complex when ready.
*Tour availability and routes may be altered at any time with or
without any notice due to operational requirements.

Bus ride is 20 minutes each way; allow 2 hours total

TOUCH 2 TASTE 1 SOUND 5 SIGHT 4 SMELL 1

• Visitors sit on the bus for • Low impact on this sense. • Bus driver speaks on • Scenery moves by • Low impact on this sense.
20 minutes traveling to or microphone for part of the windows as bus moves.
from the Apollo/Saturn V tour.
Center. • Information videos
• Informational videos play are shown on the TVs
• Few opportunities for on TVs. throughout the bus.
tactile engagement.
• Close proximity/shared • Natural lighting through
space with over visitors. bus windows.

20 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

ATX®

Astronaut Training Experience® (ATX)

Train like the next generation of space explorers who
will travel to Mars. Practice your docking skills, navigate
the unique Mars terrain and experience the sensation of
performing a spacewalk in a microgravity environment.

This program is available in addition to admission and is

recommended for ages 10 and older. Visit
KennedySpaceCenter.com for more information.

Time varies by program.

TOUCH 3 TASTE 1 SOUND 3 SIGHT 6 SMELL 1

• Visitors can experience • Low impact on this sense. • Sounds may echo indoors • Opportunity for activity • Low impact on this sense.
astronaut training. in this area. that features confined
spaces, as well as can
• Guided activity. • Some exhibits feature challenge one’s sense of
additional sounds. proprioception as uses will
• Additional cost for ATX. spin and may get dizzy.
• Quieter area but potential
for noise level to increase if • Simulation screens.
large group is present.
• Indoor/overhead lighting.

SENSORY GUIDE 21
ABOUT IBCCES

IBCCES provides a series of certifications that

empower professionals to be leaders in their field and
improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve.
These programs are recognized around the world as
the leading benchmark for training and certification in
the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.

As part of our commitment to sharing the latest

innovations and research, we periodically host the
International Symposium on Cognitive Research and
Disorders to create a forum for collaboration among
industry stakeholders.

IBCCES adheres to international standards for boards

that grant professional credentials. The IBCCES
certification procedures and content undergo various
reviews and validation, pursuant to the professions
that are eligible for certification, as well as standards
established by content experts in the field.

IBCCES has organized the results of their audit into

an easy-to-read report grouped into sections that list
factors important to people with autism, their loved
ones, and their caregivers.

Audit Date: February 2023

Guide Updated: July 2023

22 KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX