On November 13, the California Science Center unveiled the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, officially opening its doors to the public. This much-anticipated facility features the Space Shuttle Endeavour, displayed in a dramatic launch configuration, towering nearly 200 feet (approximately 61 meters) high.
A grand opening ceremony took place at the Science Center, located at 700 Exposition Park Drive, attended by prominent figures including U.S. Senators Alex Padilla from California and Mark Kelly from Arizona, as well as about 30 astronauts. The presence of these esteemed individuals highlighted the significance of the event.
Senator Mark Kelly, who commanded the Endeavour’s final mission, STS-134, reflected on the shuttle’s importance during the ceremony. He noted that other crew members from that mission, who also attended the opening, share a deep connection to the shuttle. The Endeavour’s exhibition is notable for featuring authentic solid rocket boosters and external fuel tanks, making it the only complete and genuine space shuttle system on display anywhere in the world.
In his remarks, Senator Padilla underscored the center’s potential to widen educational opportunities, allowing visitors of all ages to engage closely with the wonders of space exploration. He emphasized the center as a place where curiosity can thrive.
Kelly shared his personal sentiments about the Endeavour, expressing, “I was fortunate to command the Endeavour on its final mission. I understand the significance of this shuttle: the creativity of the American people and the determination to achieve what seems impossible. Now, generations of children will have the chance to look up at the Endeavour, feel inspired, courageously chase their big dreams, and face daunting challenges.”
The new facility, expanding the exhibition space of the Science Center almost double, encompasses 200,000 square feet and houses over 100 aerospace artifacts. It features 100 interactive exhibits focused on science and engineering, making it a hub for learning and inspiration.
Jeffrey N. Rudolph, President and CEO of the Science Center, stated during a preview event on October 28, “The opening of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center realizes our dream of building one of the world’s leading science centers over the past few decades.”
Lynda Oschin, chairwoman and secretary of the Samuel Oschin Family Foundation, also spoke about the project’s potential to ignite curiosity, promote lifelong learning, and open a world of possibilities for young people. She had recognized its extraordinary potential many years ago.
The shuttle exhibit hall reaches nearly 200 feet tall and includes a 140-foot (43 meters) elevator providing access to a viewing platform with a glass floor above the launch tower. Other attractions feature a space shuttle landing simulator, a simulated flight deck, and a 45-foot (approximately 14 meters) slide designed to mimic the shuttle’s re-entry through the Earth’s atmosphere.
The center is also equipped with three multi-level galleries: the Samuel Oschin Space Shuttle Gallery, the Korean Air Gallery, and the Kent Kresa Space Gallery.
In the aviation gallery, visitors can explore over a dozen aircraft, including gliders and fighter jets, as well as a partial fuselage of a Korean Air Boeing 747-400. A five-minute simulated flight experience from Los Angeles to Seoul adds to the interactive offerings.
In addition to the shuttle, the space gallery features Mercury-Redstone 2 capsule, Gemini 11 capsule, and command module of the Apollo-Alliance Test Program. Exhibits developed in collaboration with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) display the history of robotic space exploration over the past 60 years through models and replicas. Guests can engage in activities like programming miniature Mars rovers.
A photography exhibition titled “Endeavour’s Long Journey” was also held, documenting the shuttle’s final 68-hour journey through California, covering a distance of 12 miles, and its vertical installation process at the Science Center.
On the same day, the center’s IMAX theater screened four space-themed films: “The Dream Is Alive,” “Journey to Space 3D,” “Hubble 3D,” and “A Beautiful Planet 3D.”
Entry to the Science Center is free of charge; however, due to expected high visitor numbers, access to the new air and space center requires a reservation for a designated time slot, with a service fee of $4. This fee is waived for Science Center members and those who book their visit in person on the same day.
The Air and Space Center operates daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.