RENSSELAER, NY (12/07/2010)(readMedia)-- When the Apollo 11 astronauts stepped onto the surface of the moon in 1969, their feet were protected from the extreme temperatures and vacuum of space by boots with silicone rubber soles manufactured by Momentive Performance Materials, then know as GE Silicones. Those materials were designed and manufactured right here in Waterford, New York. On Monday, December 6th, a boot developed for this program was donated by Momentive to the Children's Museum of Science and Technology and became the centerpiece of an aerospace exhibit.
"We would naturally be happy to have an authentic piece of history on display at our museum. But the fact that this was designed right here in our own backyard makes this truly something to celebrate," noted Paul Fahey, Chairman of the Museum's Board of Trustees.
Ed Farris, Global Marketing Communications Manager also remarked that, "Momentive has a history of more than seventy years of technology innovation and market firsts. We proved that forty-one years ago when our innovation helped put the first man on the moon. And we continue to deliver that same spirit of innovation every day, around the world."
The exhibit will be on display at the Children's Museum of Science and Technology throughout the winter and spring of 2011. Attendees can combine their visit with a screening of the film, "Astronaut" now showing in the planetarium.
About Momentive Performance Materials
Momentive Performance Materials Inc. is a global leader in silicones and advanced materials, with a 70-year heritage of being first to market with performance applications for major industries that support and improve everyday life. The Company delivers science-based solutions, by linking custom technology platforms to opportunities for customers. Momentive Performance Materials Inc. is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Momentive Performance Materials Holdings LLC. Additional information is available at www.momentive.com
About The Children's Museum of Science and Technology
The Children's Museum of Science and Technology (CMOST), ranked one of the top 20 science centers in the nation by Parents magazine, is the only science center in Tech Valley specifically designed for kids and their families to explore, discover and imagine the world of science together. CMOST inspires young minds to engage in a lifelong exploration of science and technology, instilling a sense of wonder and discovery. The Children's Museum of Science and Technology is located at 250 Jordan Road (in the Rensselaer Technology Park) in Troy, New York. Aditional information is available at www.cmost.org.