Downtown Chattanooga Welcomes a Cosmic New Addition: The Space Store!
Chattanooga, get ready to blast off into the universe! A new shop that’s sure to ignite the imagination of budding astronomers and seasoned space buffs alike has landed in downtown. The Space Store has opened its doors, offering a treasure trove of space-themed merchandise that includes everything from NASA badges to charming Lego models of famous spacecraft.
A Cosmic Adventure Begins
This exciting new venture is thanks to Craig Fuller, the founder of FreightWaves and Firecrown, who expressed his lifelong fascination with the cosmos during an interview. “I’ve always been fascinated by the stars,” Fuller said, echoing the sentiments of many who find themselves drawn to the beauty and mystery of the universe. “We’re so small in this massive, infinite universe, and there’s just something captivating about the adventure of it.”
The Space Store had previously existed as an e-commerce business since 1996, but it now has its very own physical location at 412 Market St., a spot that once housed a museum dedicated to trucking. It’s wonderful to see this location blossom with new life—who knew the stars were just around the corner?
Blending Passions: Space and Aviation
Fuller’s media company, Firecrown, purchased the store earlier this year, making it a perfect fit for their mission of uniting aviation and space enthusiasts. Fuller stated, “The aviation nerds and the space nerds – there’s a Venn diagram where they sort of intersect.” In fact, Firecrown also acquired Astronomy Magazine in May, further solidifying the connection between the two communities.
What’s Hot on the Shelves?
When you step into The Space Store, you’re greeted by a delightful array of products. Store manager Maria Gonzalez revealed that items are flying off the shelves, especially NASA-branded hoodies which are perfect for the colder months. “You walk into the Space Store, and you can always just find something cool and buy it,” she said with enthusiasm. Gonzalez noted that it’s not just for collectors; the store offers something for everyone, including a recent family that spent around $1,000 on collectibles during their visit! Talk about an out-of-this-world shopping spree!
A Community That’s Reaching for the Stars
As news about the store spread, local organizations are buzzing with excitement. The Barnard Astronomical Society of Chattanooga, with over 170 members, is particularly thrilled with the new destination. President Kevin Hon expressed the society’s enthusiasm and shared that there’s been increased interest in astronomy lately, thanks to ventures from private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin that are making waves in the space industry.
NASA’s Artemis program, designed to send astronauts back to the moon, and the awe-inspiring discoveries from the James Webb Space Telescope have stoked curiosity and wonder among the public. “Astronomy in the news has really just been increasing,” Hon shared, reflecting on the vibrant surge in interest in space exploration.
Inspiring Future Generations
If you’re a parent, The Space Store is also a fantastic place to inspire your kids’ imaginations. Fuller, a dad of five, expresses excitement about how the store can provide a hands-on learning experience for children. “It’s really cool to see my young children see the magic of the physical dimension—seeing the globes and asking, ‘What is this?'” he said, highlighting the store as a valuable resource for curious minds.
Don’t Miss Out!
If you’re in Chattanooga or even just passing through, be sure to check out The Space Store. With its engaging environment and a plethora of space-themed items, it’s sure to expand your horizons and spark your fascination for the universe! So grab your family, embrace your inner space nerd, and visit this exciting new destination that promises to take you on a journey far beyond our planet!
