Meet the California Science Center’s new gateway to STEM careers
A film about the space shuttle ends with a majestic launch and rocket exhaust filling the screen. Suddenly, real-life fog envelops the theater, before the walls part and the haze dissipates to reveal a gasp-inducing 200-foot Space Shuttle Endeavour, nose up, facing skyward. This Hollywood finish—Endeavour is the only authentic space shuttle presented with fuel tank and solid rocket boosters…
The California Science Center's new $450 million Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, set to open on November 13, serves as a gateway to STEM careers in Southern California. The centerpiece of the $366 billion space technology sector is a fully restored Space Shuttle Endeavour, the only authentic shuttle with fuel tank and solid rocket boosters stacked for launch.
The 200-foot Endeavour is housed in a 20-story gallery featuring 200 aerospace artifacts and interactive exhibits that explain the history and physics of flight, space exploration, and autonomous craft. Astronaut John "Danny" Olivas, who flew two shuttle missions, says the visual experience of seeing the shuttle in launch position helps capture its enormity.
The center's mission is to inspire young people and provide a basic understanding of science and engineering, even for those who may not pursue these fields. It offers free admission, a summer science camp, professional development for educators, and high school internships.
The center collaborated with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and California Institute of Technology to showcase planetary exploration and Earth observation work. The 3D-printed 60-foot Electron rocket from Rocket Lab, Joby eVTOL, and drone displays are among the exhibits.
The center's mandate includes reducing barriers to science and guiding STEM career aspirants to their next steps. The shuttle exhibit was part of the center's master plan since 1993, and the center won Endeavour from NASA in 2011.
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