Gateway to the Universe

A Christian’s Perspective on NASA’s Kennedy Space Center

David Scott Fields II, Senior Writer • June 23, 2024

MERRITT ISLAND, FLORIDA – Every visitor to the state of Florida should make arrangements to visit NASA’s Kennedy Space Center if at all possible. As a Florida resident, I have been there half a dozen times and discover something new with each visit.

Situated on the east coast of Florida just over an hour from Walt Disney World, the Kennedy Space Center will light a fire of discovery in every explorer at heart. Since 1962, this headquarters of America’s space program has propelled mankind far beyond the boundaries of our planet into the vast and awesome universe the Lord has created. For Christians, the mysteries of exploring outer space provide not only scientific knowledge but also opportunities to be thrilled by and to glorify our precious Creator.

Psalm 19:1 practically shouts out across the centuries, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” At Kennedy, this truth comes alive as visitors learn about the infinite depths of space and the technologies that enable men and women to explore it. The magnitude of Christ’s creation—from our own solar system to the trillions of stars in galaxies millions of light-years away—becomes undeniably evident.

A definite must see at the center is the Apollo/Saturn V Center, which is home to the massive Saturn V rocket. Only a short bus tour away from the main complex, the Saturn V rocket is the miracle of ingenuity that was used to propel humanity to the moon. The intelligence, creativity, and countless man hours it took to develop this technology remind us that man’s ability to reach out into the universe is a gift from God. Each achievement of the Apollo missions, is an opportunity to reflect on how every step in space exploration reveals more of God’s handiwork.

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Do not be fooled though, NASA’s work at Kennedy Space Center extends far beyond launching rockets. For example, the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit – a definite fan favorite – showcases the genius behind the reusable shuttle program, which vastly increased humanity’s opportunities to live, work, and learn in space for more extended periods of time. For the believer in Christ, this knowledge only serves to deepen our appreciation for the Lord’s design. The laws of physics that govern movement (to say nothing of space travel itself), the critical and precise calculations required for orbital mechanics, and all the wonders of extra-planetary phenomena all point to an ordered and designed universe. Every revelation in space exploration underscores Isaiah 40:26, “Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name.” How great is our God!

In the decades that we have been reaching out into the universe, all we have learned through NASA also serves to remind us of our role as stewards of God’s creation. At Kennedy Space Center, environmental preservation is a hallmark of their mission. The center’s unique setting within the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge reminds visitors that our “blue marble,” is a precious gift from God that requires care and respect. NASA’s own stewardship of creation has often led to new technologies that can benefit all life on Earth. Among these are innovative water purification systems and renewable energy solutions. These discoveries match perfectly with the Christian mandate to serve others and protect our world for future generations.

One of the most powerful aspects of Kennedy Space Center is its ability to inspire. Through programs like “Space Explorers” and hands-on STEM activities, young minds are encouraged to dream big and pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For Christian parents and educators, this inspiration provides an opportunity to teach children how their talents and interests can be used to glorify God.

For the believer, visiting Kennedy Space Center can be far more than an educational experience. With Christ at the forefront of your thoughts as you explore the universe, it becomes a spiritual journey. As we learn about the cosmos, we are reminded of our Creator’s infinite power and love. The God who placed the stars in the sky also cares deeply for each of us, a truth that should inspire gratitude and worship. In the words of King David in Psalm 8:3-4, “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?”

Kennedy Space Center invites us to marvel at God’s creation and equips us with knowledge that can be used for His glory. As Christians, let us embrace the opportunities presented by space exploration to deepen our faith and celebrate the Creator of the universe.