The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum will explore the many uses of general aviation, including using aviation for humanitarian aid and sports, in its upcoming GE Lecture Series.
On Nov. 17, 2022, a program will explore how aviation is used to increase access to eye care in communities around the world, while a Dec. 1 program will feature renowned aerobatic pilot Sean Tucker.
Attendance is free, but advance registration is required. Both programs will also be streamed live on YouTube for those who can’t make it to the museum.
“The Flying Eye Hospital: Medicine Meets Aviation” program will take place Nov. 17 at 8 p.m. ET at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. The lecture will feature members of the Orbis International team discussing the non-profit’s Flying Eye Hospital, which is a fully accredited ophthalmic teaching hospital on board a plane.
Dr. Hunter Cherwek, vice president of clinical services and technologies, and Bruce Johnson, director of aircraft operations and maintenance, will discuss how Orbis uses aviation to provide eye care to communities around the world and training to eye-care teams that need it the most.
You can register for this lecture here.
“Sean D. Tucker: A Passion for Aviation” will take place Dec. 1 at 8 p.m. ET at the museum’s location in Washington, D.C.
For more than 40 years, aerobatic pilot Sean Tucker has thrilled air show audiences, ultimately earning numerous accolades, including the 1988 Advanced National Aerobatic Champion title and induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame and the International Council of Air Shows Hall of Fame.
Outside the aircraft, Tucker makes time to share his passion for aviation with kids to inspire the next generation of aviators.
Tucker’s biplane, “Challenger III,” was built by Specialty Aero and Aviation Specialties Unlimited to withstand Tucker’s impressive maneuvers — like rolling at 400° per second and “flying” backwards.
“Challenger III” is on display in the museum’s new “Thomas W. Haas We All Fly” exhibition, along with artifacts from Orbis’ second-generation Flying Eye Hospital DC-10.
You can sign up for this lecture here.
Those who attend the lecture in person will also be able to visit the new general aviation exhibit after the program.
Find out more at AirAndSpace.SI.edu