#California Science Center #Space Shuttle Endeavour #Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center

The Grand Opening of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center

On November 13, 2026, the highly anticipated Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center was inaugurated at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. This remarkable facility, which will house the Space Shuttle Endeavour, is set to transform the educational landscape for aspiring astronauts, engineers, and scientists by providing a unique experience centered around space exploration.

The grand opening ceremony saw participation from approximately 30 astronauts, including crew members from Endeavour's final mission. The event was marked with a ribbon-cutting and heartfelt speeches from dignitaries such as U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Mark Kelly, who emphasized the importance of this center for future generations. Senator Kelly noted, “Endeavour will live here for generations... the greatest spaceship that ever was,” highlighting the influence such landmarks have on inspiring youth to pursue their dreams.

The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is notable for being the only facility worldwide to showcase an entire, authentic space shuttle system, including a flown orbiter, solid rocket boosters, and an external tank displayed in a dramatic launch pose. Spanning 200,000 square feet, this new addition nearly doubles the existing exhibit space of the California Science Center and features over 100 artifacts related to aerospace history. Alongside these artifacts, visitors can engage in more than 100 interactive exhibits, making the learning experience both immersive and informative.

Education and inspiration are at the forefront of the center's mission. Through its three multi-level galleries—the Samuel Oschin Shuttle Gallery, Korean Air Aviation Gallery, and Kent Kresa Space Gallery—the center invites individuals of all ages to explore the scientific and engineering principles underlying atmospheric flight and space exploration. The Shuttle Gallery, standing nearly 200 feet high, serves as the centerpiece, allowing guests to observe the shuttle from various angles, revealing its technical and historical significance.

Interactive experiences abound throughout the center. Visitors can take a thrilling ride on the Shuttle Descent Slide, which simulates the shuttle's rapid descent to Earth, or experience the Orbiter Landing Simulator, where they can put their piloting skills to the test. Moreover, children and adults alike can engage with hands-on exhibits—launch model aircraft, navigate a Mars rover, or even experience life inside a digital space suit, bringing the experience of space exploration to life.

In a bid to connect generations, the center will also feature public programming, including astronaut talks and exhibitions showcasing the journey of Endeavour itself, from its construction to its celebrated final flight across California. Guests can add to this vibrant community of exploration through interactive presentations and discussions led by experts from NASA and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

The opening weekend will not only commemorate the launch of this educational facility but also engage visitors with a photodocumentation entitled **