For the past five decades, diehard astronautics fanatics and casual observers alike have been fascinated by humans floating through space. But despite this interest in traveling through the galaxies like Sandra Bullock in Gravity, our reasons for sending people out into the abyss have always seemed kind of vague. Fortunately, the National Air and Space Museum is ready to explain spacewalks to those of us who glean our information more from pop culture than textbooks. “Outside the Spacecraft: 50 Years of Extra-Vehicular Activity” arrives at the Smithsonian museum in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the first spacewalks and focuses on the work astronauts do when they’re outside the space shuttle, whether building the International Space Station or repairing the Hubble telescope. Read more >>> The exhibition is on view daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., to June 8, at the National Air and Space Museum, Independence Avenue and 6th Street SW. Free. (202) 633-2214. airandspace.si.edu. (Caroline Jones)

EAT THIS

Hank’s Oyster Bar turns 10 this year. Stop by any of the locations for lunch weekdays through March 31 and wish your server a happy anniversary to get 10 percent off your check. Servers will also give out punch cards for lunch, and if you get 10 punches, you’ll receive an invite to the restaurant’s birthday bash on May 17. Hank’s Oyster Bar, multiple locations. hanksoysterbar.com. (Jessica Sidman)

OH AND ALSO

Local crime novelist George Pelecanos celebrates the release of his latest story collection, The Martini Shot, as well as the opening of Busboys and Poets’ new Brookland location with a reading and signing. 6:30 p.m. at 625 Monroe St. NE. Free.

Hawaiian bandleader Lolena Naipo and his group Kahulanui blends traditional island music with Big Band-style swing at Tropicalia. 8 p.m. at 2001 14th St. NW. $15.

Author Anita Diamant, best known for her novel The Red Tent, discusses her new book, The Boston Girl, with George Washington University English professor Gayle Wald. 7 p.m. at 600 I St. NW. $14–$26.

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