Facts / Answers / Questions

  • The Event

  • Who Can Attend the Event?

    Anyone and everyone! Pluto-lovers of all ages are welcome to Pluto's Welcome Back Party. Don't be concerned about how much astro-jargon you know; this is an event for the general public.

  • Who Will Be There?

    The one and only Neal DeGrasse Tyson is our guest speaker. He'll be hosting the Exlusive Pluto Livestream and answering any Pluto questions you have!

  • Who Should I Contact If I Need More Information?

    You can call the Air and Space Events Desk (202) 633-1000

  • What Can / Should I Bring?

    You aren't required to bring anything to the Grand Re-Opening of Pluto, but you're welcome to bring things like small digital cameras and lots of enthusiasm.

  • What Should I Wear?

    This is a very casual event, and will be held indoors. Wear whatever you're comfortable in. If you're concerned about the weather, check out the forecast!

  • What Do I Need to Know Before Coming?

    There are no pre-requisites for this event. Just know that it's at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum on July 10th 2015. Make sure you bring your ticket with you, either printed or on your phone. The event starts at 1pm and we're going to have a stellar time.

  • Where is the Event Happening?

    The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. We're happy to provide directions for you.

  • Where Can I Park?

    Here is a map of the surrounding area with some parking options for you.

  • Will There Be Food?

    Yes. Snacks will be provided after the livestream. There will be options for a variety of diets, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free.

  • Livestream

  • How Long is the Livestream?

    We are estimating that the livestream will run for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes. It all depends on audience participation in regards to questions and discussion. We are, however, capping the amount of time spent at 1 hour and 30 minutes.

  • What Will Happen at the Livestream?

    NASA's New Horizons spacecraft will be providing us with a a never before seen view of the planet Pluto. Neil DeGrasse Tyson will be talking us through what we see and answering any questions the audience may have.

  • Can I Personally Meet Neal DeGrasse Tyson?

    Mr. Tyson will not be doing any meet-and-greets at the event. However the IMAX theater, despite its large size, will provide us with a casual and intimate setting.

  • Instagram Contest

  • How Can I Win a T-Shirt?

    Downtown Washington D.C. has been covered in Pluto stickers! If you find one, use your smart phone to take a photo of the tiny planet and post it to instagram with the hashtag of #VivaLaPluto. That's it! We will announce the winner after the livestream at the event.

  • Can I Just Buy a T-Shirt?

    Yes! They will become available on the Smithsonian Merchandise website after the event.

  • What are the Rules?

    By participating in the contest you are agreeing to the following rules:

    You cannot remove stickers from their locations or damage them in any way.

    Roughly 50% of the photo must be background otherwise it does not count. This is so we can tell where the sticker was found if it is not indicated in the caption.

    Do not steal other instagram photos of stickers and post them on your own account. Yes, we can find out if you've done this.

    Do not replicate stickers and attempt to pass them off as the real ones. We will know.

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