HUFFMAN PRAIRIE

COME FLY WITH US!

The Huffman Prairie grid has a long history with its initial rendition as Huffman Prairie, the first United States Air Force (USAF) immersive 3D-world virtual grid. Over the years, the grid has evolved with newer capabilities but has retained its initial charm and emphasis on the story of flight and the amazing ways aviators have sparked the imagination for art-of-the-possible with new frontiers and discoveries. Upon arrival to the grid, visitors are placed on the original aviator dial landmarking the entry into the first virtual Huffman Prairie campus. A Robert Heinlein Space Port welcomes visitors and serves as the gateway to a vast flight center supporting flying, ballooning, parachuting, and space travel. A Huffman Flight Academy is also provided offering a Wright Flyer for flying along with several ultralights to use for aerial sightseeing. A helicopter is also available for use. The virtual airfield located on the Huffman grid is named in honor of Geraldine “Jerrie” Mock who flew a single-engine Cessna dubbed ‘Charlie’ solo around the globe in 1964 setting a world record. The 38-year-old mother of three was known as the “The Flying Housewife.” Jerrie’s accomplishment inspired a generation of future female aviators. Also, the original Barbara Truman tribute planetarium is located on the Huffman grid and offers an automated solar system to explore. Also, the Huffman Observatory is located adjacent to the Heinlein Center. The national award-winning Mars Expedition simulation is hosted and starts at Huffman. Simulation participants start by taking a reusable rocket booster to the International Space Station (ISS) and/or via a lunar station on Earth’s moon for continuing the journey to Mars. The booster returns to Earth to land on a floating barge. Upon completion of the Mars Expedition simulation participants return to Huffman in a capsule as it glides gently back to Earth, supported by large deployed parachutes, for landing safely in the ocean.