Texas Church Near NASA Center Unveils Sculpture Honoring Underrepresented Space Race Pioneers
St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church, located near NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, has unveiled a new public art display called 'EarthRise.' This sculpture pays tribute to Black Americans, women, and other underrepresented groups who made significant contributions to the United States' space exploration program. The sculpture features a parabolic canopy resembling a wing, with a stained-glass mosaic depicting approximately 50 people of color. Below, eight plaques form a miniature space capsule, showcasing photos and text that honor the accomplishments of individuals whose courage, innovation, and perseverance expanded humanity's reach into space. The 'EarthRise' sculpture was dedicated on August 16, with former NASA Administrator Charles Bolden Jr. among the attendees. The project was largely funded by a $116,000 grant from the Diocese of Texas' Joseph and John Talbot Fund for Racial Reconciliation, supplemented by $15,000 raised by the congregation. 
