Space Center Houston, located in Houston, Texas, serves as the official visitor center for NASA's Johnson Space Center. This science museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the history and future of space exploration. With over a million visitors annually, the center is a hub for space enthusiasts and curious minds alike. From high-fidelity replicas to interactive exhibits, Space Center Houston provides an immersive experience into
the world of space travel.
Independence Plaza: A Highlight of Space Center Houston
One of the most notable attractions at Space Center Houston is the Independence Plaza exhibit complex. This exhibit features the world's only high-fidelity Space Shuttle replica, Independence, mounted on one of the two original Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, NASA 905. Visitors have the rare opportunity to enter both the shuttle and the aircraft, offering a unique perspective on the engineering marvels of space travel. The Independence was previously located at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex but was moved to Houston to make way for a new attraction.
The relocation of the Independence was a significant event, involving a heavy lift operation known as The Rise of Independence. This operation placed the shuttle atop NASA 905, creating a striking visual display that captures the imagination of all who visit. The exhibit not only showcases the shuttle but also provides educational insights into the history and technology of the Space Shuttle program.
The Starship Gallery: A Walk Through Space History
Another key feature of Space Center Houston is the Starship Gallery, which houses a collection of flown spacecraft and space artifacts. This gallery includes the Apollo 17 command module America, as well as the Mercury 9 and Gemini 5 capsules. These historic artifacts offer a tangible connection to the early days of human spaceflight and the pioneering missions that paved the way for future exploration.
Visitors to the Starship Gallery can also view a display of Moon rocks, providing a rare glimpse into the geological history of our nearest celestial neighbor. The gallery's exhibits are designed to educate and inspire, highlighting the achievements of NASA and the ongoing quest to explore the unknown.
Mission Mars: Preparing for the Future
Space Center Houston is not just about the past; it also looks to the future with its Mission Mars exhibit. Opened in 2017, this exhibit focuses on NASA's plans for future travel to Mars. Through interactive activities, visitors can learn about the challenges and opportunities of Mars exploration. The exhibit features a virtual reality wall, real-time weather forecasts, and a Mars meteorite that guests can touch.
Mission Mars also includes a full-size Orion research capsule and a spacecraft simulator, offering a hands-on experience of what future astronauts might encounter on their journey to the Red Planet. This exhibit underscores Space Center Houston's commitment to education and its role in inspiring the next generation of space explorers.
