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Time Capsule FAQ

About the Time Capsule

Is this the Space Needle’s first time capsule?
No, this is the Space Needle’s second time capsule. During the Space Needle’s recent renovation, construction workers discovered a long-forgotten time capsule, which was originally sealed in 1982. The time capsule was hidden inside of one of the concealed steel beams located on the tower’s observation level. Once opened, the heavy metal box included letters, photographs and postcards from 1982 and 1962 (the year of the Space Needle opened for the World’s Fair). Some of the items discovered in the 1982 time capsule will be included in the 2062 time capsule.

Who designed the 2062 time capsule?
Andries Breedt, a mechanical engineer who immigrated to the United States in 1995 from South Africa, built and designed the 2062 time capsule. In 1999, Andries started his own company called Breedt Production Tooling and Design (BPT Design). For nearly two decades, BPT Design has developed hardware for companies such as Boeing and Triumph Aerospace. Prior to developing the Space Needle’s 2062 time capsule, BPT Design played an important role in the landmark’s recent renovation project. The company designed and created a specialized robot machine to hoist and install 2,300 pound glass onto the Space Needle.

How long did it take to make the time capsule?
From draft to finish, it took three months to design and create the time capsule.

What is the total weight and size of the new time capsule?
The time capsule weighs 163.4 pounds and the dimensions are 42.25″ x 16″ diameter.

What materials were used to build the time capsule and why?
The materials that were used to build the time capsule include 301 stainless steel and gold-plated aluminum with an anodic finish. Stainless steel and gold were selected because these materials are commonly used around the world due to their corrosion and wear resistance. The anodic finish provides increased thickness, color, and protection of the aluminum over time.

How will the items be stored and protected?
The packaging of each item is dependent on the object’s material, shape and size. However, most items will be carefully placed in a durable, vacuumed sealed plastic bag.

When will the time capsule be sealed?
The Space Needle time capsule will be sealed on Monday, October 21, 2019.

When will the time capsule be opened?
The time capsule will be opened on the Space Needle’s 100th anniversary on April 21, 2062.

About the Contest

How do I participate in the time capsule contest?
To participate in the contest, visit our contest submissions page here.

Who can participate in the time capsule contest?
If you are a resident of the United States and at least 18 years old, you are eligible to participate in the time capsule contest. Visit our rules page for more details.

When will the winners be announced?
Starting in May and ending in October of 2019, a winner will be announced every month. The contest officially ends Friday, September 13. There will be a total of SIX winners.

Are there any size restrictions for time capsule items?
For the time capsule contest, all items must be able fit in a small 3”x 3” x 3” clear box, which will be provided by the Space Needle.

What items are not permitted in the time capsule?

  • No perishable items (food, etc.)
  • No weapons
  • No ammunition
  • No explosives or fireworks
  • No fertilizer
  • No flares
  • No liquid fuels (butane, propane, etc.) e.g. lighters
  • No hookahs, cigarettes, cigars, smoking materials, etc.
  • No flammable liquids or gels
  • No chemicals
  • No dry ice
  • No aerosols
  • No liquids
  • No compressed air or gas (CO2)
  • No computers
  • No batteries nor things containing batteries
  • No flash/electronic storage without Space Needle approval
  • No hard drives
  • Nothing living
  • No items you may want back
  • No offensive, immoral, obscene, indecent, or profane materials *

*Please note the Space Needle reserves the right to deny any items it does not deem appropriate for the time capsule. Visit the time capsule rules page for more information.

Questions? Contact timecapsule@spaceneedle.com.