Boeing Makes $30 Million Donation To Smithsonian Institute, Exhibit Updates Planned

WASHINGTON (AP) — The most iconic artifacts of aviation and space history are getting an updated display for the 21st century.

For the first time since its 1976 opening, the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum plans to overhaul its central exhibition showing the milestones of flight.

Charles Lindbergh's "Spirit of St. Louis," John Glenn's Mercury capsule from his first orbit and an Apollo Lunar Module recalling America's first moon landing will be among the key pieces featured.

The extensive renovation through 2016 will be funded by the largest corporate donation in the Smithsonian's history. On Thursday, Boeing is announcing a $30 million gift to the museum.

Curators at the nation's most-visited museum plan to reimagine the exhibit with more stories and digital interaction.

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