California Science Center Unveils Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, Featuring Space Shuttle Endeavour
The California Science Center in Los Angeles has officially opened its Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, a significant expansion that nearly doubles its exhibit space. The centerpiece of this new 200,000-square-foot facility is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, displayed in a 20-story launch configuration, complete with its solid rocket boosters and external tank. This makes the California Science Center the only location globally to exhibit a complete, authentic space shuttle system. The grand opening ceremony on November 13, 2026, was attended by approximately 30 astronauts, including U.S. Senator Mark Kelly, who commanded Endeavour's final mission, along with federal, state, county, and science center officials. The center features over 100 artifacts, including flown spacecraft like the Mercury-Redstone 2 and Gemini 11 capsules, and 100 hands-on exhibits designed to engage visitors with science and engineering principles related to atmospheric flight and space exploration. Interactive experiences include a...
