The next generation of astronauts may well have been inspired by a trip to the state fair.

You see, it was at the fair that they experienced Mission: Planet Earth, a touring educational program that VEE created from start to finish for E-Ventures LLC and partners SEGA and NASA. This 15,000 square foot experience included a 150' full-scale replica of the space shuttle Enterprise, realistic full-scale replicas of the Mercury capsule and Lunar Rover, a multi-screen video presentation shown in a mobile 150 person theatre, and even real moon rocks! The program toured the top 20 state fairs in the U.S. and regional expositions in Canada, presenting highlights from American, Soviet and European space programs past, present and future. This Smithsonian-level program traveled in eight 53 foot trailers and was designed for installation in 24 hours — an admirable feat for humble earthlings!