(May 7, 2003)

In honor of the pioneers of aviation and space flight, a parade of aircraft representing the past century will proceed through San Jose streets to usher in a day of celebration.

On May 10, 2003, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Calif., and Lockheed Martin Space Systems, Sunnyvale, Calif., in collaboration with The Tech Museum of Innovation, San Jose, Calif., will sponsor the 2003 Space Day parade and celebration. The family event in downtown San Jose is a joint celebration of International Space Day and the Centennial of Flight. The event will begin at 9:00 a.m. PDT with an airplane parade down Market Street. The celebration will include a replica of the Wright Flyer, NASA displays, hands-on activities, an IMAX film festival and a chance to talk to a former astronaut and other distinguished speakers. The Tech opens at 10:00 a.m. PDT.

"NASA is proud of its contributions to the nation in aeronautics research and development," said Dr. Adena Loston, NASA associate administrator for education. "NASA's participation in this parade and Centennial of Flight celebrations around the country is one way NASA is helping celebrate the past 100 years of flight, looking forward to the next 100 years and inspiring the next generation of aeronautic pioneers."

Loston will serve as grand marshal for the airplane parade. Participating in the parade will be NASA's X-43 and Highly Maneuverable Aircraft Technology (HiMAT) research vehicles, aerobatic bi-planes, the 'James Bond' plane, the plane used by 9/11 pilot Jason Dahl for his first solo flight and various civilian light airplanes. The aircraft will be displayed on Park Avenue adjacent to The Tech after the parade.

Plaza de Cesar Chavez will host a replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer with 'Wilbur Wright' available to share his story of discovery. Speaking inside The Tech will be Guy Bluford, the first African-American to fly into space; Leslie Williams, member of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen of World War II and members of the Ninety-Nines, a professional association of women pilots, talking about the history of women in aviation. Speakers will present their stories inside The Tech at noon, 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. PDT respectively.

"Lockheed Martin is pleased to continue its tradition of working with The Tech to provide a community event in honor of Space Day since 1996. We're honored to join forces with The Tech and NASA in fostering interest in aerospace, and we hope this year