California Science Center Celebrates Completion of Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center
The California Science Center has announced a monumental achievement with the completion of the construction of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, a project that promises to revolutionize aerospace education and exploration. Following a groundbreaking ceremony in June 2022, this ambitious four-year endeavor has culminated in a 200,000 square foot addition that significantly enhances the Science Center's exhibit space. This new facility is set to become the permanent home for the iconic Space Shuttle Endeavour, making its debut in a unique 'ready-for-launch' position within a jaw-dropping vertical display.
As preparations ramp up for the installation of historic aerospace artifacts and interactive displays, the California Science Center invites the public to anticipate this incredible addition, which will provide a dynamic learning environment for visitors of all ages. With a collection featuring approximately 100 aerospace artifacts complemented by 100 hands-on exhibits, the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is designed to engage visitors with the fascinating principles of flight and space exploration.
Guests will have the rare opportunity to explore three expansive multi-level galleries: the Samuel Oschin Shuttle Gallery, emphasizing the Space Shuttle program; the Korean Air Aviation Gallery, celebrating the advances in aviation; and the Kent Kresa Space Gallery, focusing on the future of space exploration. The interactive nature of the galleries aims to spark curiosity and promote education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Jeffrey Rudolph, President and CEO of the California Science Center, expressed his excitement, stating, "This new project fulfills our long-standing dream and secures our mission to inspire scientific learning in a way that is unprecedented in our history. The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center will be a beacon for future generations of scientists and explorers, and we can't wait to unveil it for the community."
The architectural design of the center, led by ZGF Architects, stands out with its sleek, curvilinear stainless-steel exterior that mirrors the aerodynamic features of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. The building reaches a height of 200 feet, making it a striking landmark easily visible from various points throughout Los Angeles. Engineered with a focus on sustainability, the facility has achieved LEED Silver certification, promising both durability and energy efficiency.
Moreover, the construction process itself has been a feat of engineering, involving around 1,500 skilled workers dedicated to bringing this visionary project to life. Not insignificant among the challenges faced was the delicate task of constructing the 2,000-ton curved diagrid structure that envelops Space Shuttle Endeavour, successfully achieved without damaging the spacecraft.
As a part of the project's development, significant milestones have already occurred, including the installation of the shuttle in its vertical configuration in early 2024, and the addition of various notable aerospace artifacts in both the Korean Air Aviation Gallery and Kent Kresa Space Gallery revealed in 2025.
Thanks to the generosity of major donors and foundations, including the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation, the California Science Center has secured over $390 million toward what will ultimately be a $450 million project budget. This financial support has played a crucial role in making the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center a reality, promising it will stand as a key educational and civic resource for future generations.
The California Science Center, located in historic Exposition Park in Los Angeles, invites families, students, and anyone curious about science to visit and explore its many interactive exhibits and IMAX films. General admission remains free, ensuring that the wonders of science are accessible to all.
In summary, the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is not just a new building; it is a transformative space destined to ignite passion for aerospace and science within the hearts of millions, shaping the future of education as we know it.
As preparations ramp up for the installation of historic aerospace artifacts and interactive displays, the California Science Center invites the public to anticipate this incredible addition, which will provide a dynamic learning environment for visitors of all ages. With a collection featuring approximately 100 aerospace artifacts complemented by 100 hands-on exhibits, the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is designed to engage visitors with the fascinating principles of flight and space exploration.
Guests will have the rare opportunity to explore three expansive multi-level galleries: the Samuel Oschin Shuttle Gallery, emphasizing the Space Shuttle program; the Korean Air Aviation Gallery, celebrating the advances in aviation; and the Kent Kresa Space Gallery, focusing on the future of space exploration. The interactive nature of the galleries aims to spark curiosity and promote education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Jeffrey Rudolph, President and CEO of the California Science Center, expressed his excitement, stating, "This new project fulfills our long-standing dream and secures our mission to inspire scientific learning in a way that is unprecedented in our history. The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center will be a beacon for future generations of scientists and explorers, and we can't wait to unveil it for the community."
The architectural design of the center, led by ZGF Architects, stands out with its sleek, curvilinear stainless-steel exterior that mirrors the aerodynamic features of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. The building reaches a height of 200 feet, making it a striking landmark easily visible from various points throughout Los Angeles. Engineered with a focus on sustainability, the facility has achieved LEED Silver certification, promising both durability and energy efficiency.
Moreover, the construction process itself has been a feat of engineering, involving around 1,500 skilled workers dedicated to bringing this visionary project to life. Not insignificant among the challenges faced was the delicate task of constructing the 2,000-ton curved diagrid structure that envelops Space Shuttle Endeavour, successfully achieved without damaging the spacecraft.
As a part of the project's development, significant milestones have already occurred, including the installation of the shuttle in its vertical configuration in early 2024, and the addition of various notable aerospace artifacts in both the Korean Air Aviation Gallery and Kent Kresa Space Gallery revealed in 2025.
Thanks to the generosity of major donors and foundations, including the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation, the California Science Center has secured over $390 million toward what will ultimately be a $450 million project budget. This financial support has played a crucial role in making the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center a reality, promising it will stand as a key educational and civic resource for future generations.
The California Science Center, located in historic Exposition Park in Los Angeles, invites families, students, and anyone curious about science to visit and explore its many interactive exhibits and IMAX films. General admission remains free, ensuring that the wonders of science are accessible to all.
In summary, the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is not just a new building; it is a transformative space destined to ignite passion for aerospace and science within the hearts of millions, shaping the future of education as we know it.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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