From Earth to Orbit


Owls Head Transportation Museum
Annual Gala

Friday | July 31, 2026

An Evening Where History Meets Innovation

Step into an unforgettable evening at the Owls Head Transportation Museum, where the spirit of early aviation meets the innovation of modern space exploration.

Surrounded by historic aircraft and inspired by the pioneers who shaped our world, guests will experience a night of connection, discovery, and celebration.

This year’s gala, From Earth to Orbit, honors the journey of human ingenuity—from the first powered flight to the vast frontier beyond our atmosphere.

A Century of Innovation

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Owls Head Transportation Museum as we celebrate innovation, exploration, and the future of American ingenuity.

This year’s gala, From Earth to Orbit, will transform the museum into an immersive experience inspired by the journey from early aviation to space exploration—honoring the pioneers who first took flight and those who continue to push the boundaries of discovery.

Proceeds from the Gala support the Museum’s education programs, inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning for the next generation of innovators.

The Museum’s 1923 Fokker C-IVa—now over a century old and the only operational aircraft of its kind—continues to fly, connecting generations through the living history of aviation.

Innovation is the thread that connects generations — carrying the courage of early aviators to the ambition of modern space exploration.

R.S.V.P

   Purchase tickets today! If you would like to add guests, make changes or have any other questions, contact ANNE (207) 594-4418, ext 163 or email aweston@ohtm.org

FROM EARTH TO ORBIT

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FROM EARTH TO ORBIT 〰️

Before entering the event, photo opportunities will be available with a selection of the museum’s historic vehicles. Enjoy a welcome champagne toast and sample some of Maine’s sweet local oysters!

Enter OHTM’s new Science & Industry Center and mingle with fellow enthusiasts, friends, and supporters of the museum. Refreshing cocktails and a large assortment of locally sourced appetizers await you!

Relax to Jim Ciampi’s “Keys to the City” piano entertainment while viewing a large selection of SILENT auction items. Science & Industry Center tours available from OHTM educators and staff.

A seated multi-course dinner (catered by Applecroft) will be kicked off by select guest speakers highlighting OHTM’s celebrated past.

After dinner the 50th Anniversary Gala’s keynote speaker Dean Kamen, founder of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) will deliver an inspiring message about the importance of youth STEM programs in support of future tech leaders. FIRST programs currently reach 3.4 million participants in over 110 countries. 

Following this presentation you will have the opportunity to bid on select LIVE auction items and pledge your support—all proceeds will support the museum’s education goals.

After the presentation and auction, get ready for the theatrical interactive performance of a dueling piano show. Open bar throughout the evening.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: To Be Announced

Special Thanks to our Generous Event Sponsors

Owls Head Transportation Museum, 117 Museum Street, PO Box 277, Owls Head, ME 04854 • (207)594-4418

OWLSHEAD.ORG

About the Event

John Bottero, OHTM Executive Director
(207)594-4418. ext 127
jb@ohtm.org

TICKETS

Anne Weston
(207)594-4418 ext 163
aweston@ohtm.org

Sponsorship

John Bottero, OHTM Executive Director
(207)594-4418. ext 127
jb@ohtm.org

Kat Woodworth
(207)594-4418. ext 114
ks@ohtm.org