A look inside NASA's CCT

RIVERSIDE, Ohio (WDTN) - NASA'S first Crew Compartment Trainer was formally introduced during a private event at the National Museum of the Air Force Thursday.

There, many people had the opportunity to take their first look into the mock shuttle that is currently on display in the Cold War Gallery.  

Astronauts Mike Foreman and Michael Good served as special guests and tour guides of the CCT.

"I spent hours training on this CCT for my trips on Atlantis," said Captain Foreman.  "I flew on space shuttle missions STS-123 in 2008 and STS-129 in 2009."

Astronaut Michael Good was also in attendance.  He flew onboard Atlantis for STS-125 in 2009 and STS-132 in 2010.  Both he and Captain Foreman are Ohio natives and believe they are a testament to how shuttles like the CCT can inspire young people.

"My parents used to bring me down here from Cleveland," said Good.  "This museum is what got me excited about flying and was one of the things that inspired me to study aerospace engineering."

US Congressman Steve Austria said its one of the main goals in displaying the CCT and other exhibits at the museum.

"We want to increase student interest in subjects such as math, science and engineering," said Congressman Austria.  "When people come here (to the museum) and are able to touch and feel this (CCT), it gets them excited.  It gets our students excited about the opportunity to maybe be an Astronaut someday."

Museum visitors will be able to get on board the CCT once its entire exhibit is complete.  Officials said that should be within a year.