Ever wondered what a distant galaxy feels like? Or what it’s like to run your fingers across the birthplace of a star?
Get ready to blast off, because the universe is coming to Des Moines in a whole new way! We are beyond thrilled to announce our upcoming traveling exhibit: Experience the Cosmos: The James Webb Space Telescope Tactile Exhibit, running from September 14 through December 21, 2026 at the Iowa Library for the Blind!
🌌 A Universe Designed for Everyone
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is currently floating in deep space, capturing mind-blowing views of our universe using advanced infrared technology. But you don’t just have to look at these breathtaking photos, you can feel them, hear them, and experience them!
🎉 Save the Date: Grand Opening Celebration!
Mark your calendars for our Grand Opening on Saturday, October 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Join us for an out-of-this-world morning packed with:
- ✨ Hands-on tactile stations and interactive deep-space activities.
- 🎨 A special feature activity led by acclaimed artist Jill Wells!
- 🛰️ An up-close look at galaxies, nebulae, and far-off exoplanets like you’ve never experienced before.
🌟 Endless Cosmic Fun All Season Long
The fun doesn’t stop at the grand opening! We have stellar programming planned for space enthusiasts of all ages throughout the exhibit’s run:
- Makerspace Mondays: Get hands-on with STEM creations and cosmic builds.
- Virtual After-School Program: Explore space-themed activities and tactile discovery.
- Beyond the Book Teen/Tween Book Club: Connect through mixed genres and deep-space stories, one chapter at a time!
- STEMFest (Oct 24, 1–3 P.M.): Partnering with the South Central STEM Hub for hands-on activities, guided exhibit tours, and a chance to meet local STEM pros!
- Weekly YouTube Tours & Lending Kits: Can’t make it in person right away? Check out our weekly video tours or borrow curated space kits complete with 3D-printed astronomical features, audio descriptions, and Braille guides!
📍 Plan Your Visit
- Exhibit Dates: September 14, 2026 – December 21, 2026
- Location: Iowa Library for the Blind (524 Fourth Street, Des Moines, IA 50309 — use the Watson Powell entrance!)
- Cost: Free to visit the exhibit! Free parking available in the lot across Fourth Street.
- Hours:
- Mondays: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Tuesdays – Fridays: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- 1st Saturday of Oct, Nov, & Dec: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Bringing a group of 10 or more? Make sure to register your group on our website so we can prepare for your arrival! Register Here.
👕 Support the Mission!
Keep an eye out for our upcoming exhibit T-shirt shop! All proceeds support the Friends of the Iowa Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, who help fund our 3D printers, adaptive equipment, and amazing public programs.
Ready to feel the wonder of the universe? Subscribe to our blog to stay up to date on all upcoming events, or drop us a line at library@blind.state.ia.us with any questions.
We can’t wait to see you there! 🚀✨
This Exhibition was developed by Tactile Images (www.tactileimages.com) in association with the National Federation of the Blind and Getty Images.
