The week just started, but we’re already counting down to Thursday — and for good reason. The Smithsonian is kicking off a new event series, SMITHSONIANat8, and the inaugural event coincides with Yuri's Night. If you're not familiar, Yuri's Night is a global bash that celebrates cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin's first orbit around the earth. The Smithsonian's soiree will mark the 52nd anniversary of that historic occasion, plus the 44th anniversary of the first moon landing.
Science nerd? You can talk tech, spaceships, and science with SpaceUp DC, or play scientist and collect microbes with the Science Cheerleaders (exactly what they sound like). Consider yourself more of an artsy astronomer? Scope an out-of-this-world 360-degree image of a space shuttle interior, and suit up for a costume contest to win a cool prize from ThinkGeek. There’s plenty to do (and learn) at this planetary party, but don’t forget the most important: dancing like it’s your last night on earth to tunes by DJ collective OneLoveMassive.
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Now, for the best part: We've got four pairs of tickets to give away! Leave a comment below telling us about your favorite space-related movie or scene, and we'll notify winners tomorrow, Tuesday, morning. If you're not one of the lucky winners, you can scoop $15 tickets here. Unlike the real deal, space is limited. (A little nerd humor for your Monday.)
When: Thursday, July 25, from 8 to 11 p.m.
Where: S. Dillon Ripley Center, 1100 Jefferson Drive SW; 202-633-3030.
Where: S. Dillon Ripley Center, 1100 Jefferson Drive SW; 202-633-3030.
Photo: Courtesy of Yuri's Night Official Site