NASA's Interactive Space Exhibit Engages Half a Million Fans at World Cup Festival

Between June 11 and July 19, NASA operated a complimentary interactive showcase at the FIFA Fan Festival in East Downtown Houston, drawing over half a million attendees who explored exhibits on the Artemis program, a Moon Base concept, the International Space Station, and a space-flown World Cup soccer ball. Visitors could climb into a lunar rover simulator, view an Orion crew-survival suit, and interact with a Lunar and Mars Touch Table.

On June 20, Artemis II commander Reid Wiseman and pilot Victor Glover served as stadium captains for the Netherlands-Sweden match at NRG Stadium, receiving a standing ovation from more than 67,000 fans. ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot recorded a “Viking Row” from the ISS, and astronauts Andreas Mogensen and Marcus Wandt participated from the ground, linking fans to orbital life. A STEM demonstration created with Adidas illustrated how space physics influence soccer, and Expedition 74 crew members sent prerecorded greetings that aired throughout the event. The festival closed with astronaut Mark Vande Hei speaking on the stage and kicking a ceremonial ball, while community-engagement lead Jessica Cordero praised the volunteer team.