One of the most exciting and moving experiences has been attending the media preview of the California Science Center’s new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center and being among the first to witness the unveiling of Space Shuttle Endeavour in its incredible new permanent home.
I still remember when Endeavour flew over my neighborhood in Los Angeles. That was in 2012! It was such an incredible, surreal moment to look up and see a piece of space exploration history flying right over us. To now stand beneath it in its full launch configuration was truly awe-inspiring. It’s hard to put into words what it feels like to see something you remember from that moment in the sky now preserved for future generations.
Governor Gavin Newsom was there for the occasion and shared some thoughtful words about what the space shuttle represents beyond science and engineering. He reminded us that we spend so much time focused on our differences when there is so much more that unites us. As he put it, “the world’s too small to win fleeting victories at other people’s expenses, that we all have to triumph together.” His words were a meaningful reminder that the spirit of exploration is about more than reaching space. It’s about imagination, possibility, and what we can accomplish together.
The new 200,000-square-foot expansion nearly doubles the California Science Center’s existing exhibit space and features three multi-level galleries, 100 artifacts, and 100 hands-on exhibits exploring aviation, space, science, and engineering. The centerpiece is undoubtedly Endeavour, displayed nearly 200 feet above the ground in a breathtaking launch position. The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center officially opens to the public on November 13, 2026.
Beyond Endeavour, the two other galleries offer plenty to explore. The Korean Air Aviation Gallery celebrates the science and evolution of flight. The gallery features suspended aircrafts, a walk-through section of a Boeing 747, and a simulated flight experience from Los Angeles to Seoul. There are also interactive exhibits where visitors can experiment with the forces that make planes fly and even explore aircraft design. The Kent Kresa Space Gallery takes visitors further into space exploration, with rockets, flown spacecraft, satellites, telescopes, and hands-on experiences that bring missions to life. Together, the three galleries offer an incredible journey from mastering flight here on Earth to exploring our universe.
The California Science Center has always held a special place in my heart. It was one of our favorite places to visit when my daughter was little. She loved the hands-on exhibits and exploring the different ecosystems. I loved that we could spend the day learning and exploring without spending a fortune (entrance is free).
I can’t wait to bring my daughter back and explore everything this incredible new center has to offer. What a beautiful way to preserve a piece of history while inspiring the next generation to dream big and imagine what’s possible.
The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center officially opens November 13, 2026. General admission to the California Science Center, including the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, is free. Due to anticipated high demand, there will be timed reservations for entry to the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, which can be made in advance for a small $4 service fee. For more information and to make reservations, visit CaliforniaScienceCenter.org. Entry may be limited or unavailable without advance reservations.
