Moonwalk, don’t run to space exhibit

Fewer than two weeks from now will mark the 40th anniversary of man’s first steps on the moon.

At South Coast Plaza’s Jewel Court, Omega Watches and Tourbillon are highlighting the milestone in space exploration with exhibits of replica space vehicles and tools.

In the appropriately named “Jewel Court,” South Coast Plaza shoppers can find some of the prized tools astronauts and scientists used in their out-of-this-world explorations.

With the exhibits’ opening Wednesday, visitors can see a recreation of the moonscape, Lunar Rover, an Apollo 10 space suit and the Mars Rover, among others, on display.

Already on display are the rover, a life-sized replica of a space suit and another space vehicle that ran on solar panels covering its top.

The exhibit is open through Sunday.

The crowds are expected to turn out Saturday afternoon when astronauts Cmdr. Scott Carpenter, Lt. Gen. Thomas Stafford and Capt. Gene Cernan — the last man to walk on the moon — are scheduled to appear and host a panel on their experiences and space exploration from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Jewel Court.

The event is meant to commemorate the moon landing and highlight Omega Watch’s contribution by being the only watch worn in space.

If You Go

WHAT: Omega Watches and Tourbillon present: Mercury, Gemini and Apollo astronauts exhibit and panel discussion.

WHERE: South Coast Plaza Jewel Court, 3333 Bristol St. in Costa Mesa, on the first floor by Macy’s.

WHEN: Exhibit is open now through Sunday. Astronaut panel discussion is 3 to 4 p.m. Saturday in the Jewel Court.

INFORMATION: RSVP for the panel discussion by calling (800) 456-8463.