The California Science Center in Los Angeles is set to open its newest attraction, the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, on November 13. The state‑of‑the‑art pavilion will house the Space Shuttle Endeavour displayed in its full 20‑story launch configuration, giving locals and tourists a rare chance to stand beside one of America’s most iconic spacecraft.
Tickets and Admission
Admission to the Science Center remains free, but visitors must reserve a timed ticket. Online reservations carry a $4 service fee; those who stop by the Center in person can secure a ticket without the fee. Because demand is expected to be high for months after opening, the Center advises early reservation.
What the Center Offers
Beyond the shuttle, the new pavilion will feature a Korean Air Aviation Gallery filled with historic aircraft, futuristic passageways, and interactive stations where guests can program a rover or try on a digital space suit. A “Wear‑a‑Wing” area lets participants test foam wings and feel the sensation of lift, bringing a taste of flight to all ages.
Leadership’s Vision
“The opening of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center fulfills a decades‑long dream to create one of the world’s leading science centers,” said Jeffrey Rudolph, President and CEO of the California Science Center. He added that the shuttle exhibit will provide “a greater platform than ever before to accomplish our mission, to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone.” Rudolph emphasized that the experience is intended to be an enduring source of inspiration for future generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers.
Community Impact
The new pavilion reinforces Los Angeles’ commitment to STEM education and family‑friendly learning. By offering free access and hands‑on activities, the Center supports parents and teachers seeking engaging, faith‑compatible ways to nurture curiosity about the universe. The project also creates local jobs in museum operations, education, and visitor services.
How to Visit
Visitors can reserve tickets through the California Science Center website or at the Center’s ticket desk. The pavilion is located in Exposition Park, adjacent to other cultural institutions such as the Natural History Museum and the California African American Museum, making it an ideal addition to a day of family outings.
With the launch of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, Los Angeles adds a world‑class educational destination that celebrates American ingenuity, honors the legacy of the Space Shuttle program, and invites the next generation to look upward and onward.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
