MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. – Young space enthusiasts took their imaginations to new heights Saturday at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex during Legoland Florida Resort’s Junior Galaxy Explorers event.
Kids ages 6 to 12 competed by designing and building original LEGO spacecraft, either ahead of time or on-site, surrounded by real rockets and spaceflight history.
The challenge was inspired by the upcoming opening of LEGO Galaxy at Legoland Florida, featuring the new Galacticoaster indoor space-themed roller coaster set to open Feb. 27.
Two-time Space Shuttle astronaut Winston Scott joined LEGOLAND Master Model Builders, giving the young builders the unique honor of being judged by a real astronaut.
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Families also participated in the “Postcards to Space” activity, where kids shared messages inspired by space exploration and STEM.
The Junior Galaxy Explorers search aims to find young innovators who will be among the first to ride the Galacticoaster in Florida and California. While the Kennedy Space Center event was the last in-person stop in Florida, families nationwide can still enter digitally through Jan. 31.
Winners will receive a prize package including early access to the Galacticoaster, a stay at Legoland Hotel, annual passes for their family, themed apparel, and a commemorative LEGO build.
On Galacticoaster, riders will customize their spacecraft using interactive touchscreens and RFID wristbands, creating up to 625 unique ride combinations. The ride is the first indoor coaster built inside Legoland Florida since its 2011 opening.
Beyond the coaster, LEGO Galaxy features an Orbital Outpost with space-themed souvenirs and a toddler play area for children ages 1 to 4.