Nothing quite captures the imagination like outer space, and the Space Center Houston is the perfect place to learn, discover, and explore everything about the universe beyond our planet. Located in Houston, Texas, the Space Center Houston is a one-of-a-kind educational destination that is dedicated to celebrating the history, science, and technology behind space exploration.
The Space Center Houston is not just any museum; it is the official visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center. Opened in 1992, this attraction has welcomed millions of visitors from around the world who come to learn about space exploration, its history, and the future of space exploration technology.
The Space Center Houston was originally built as a part of NASA's Manned Spacecraft Center in 1965, which oversaw all manned space missions. It was the epicenter of the Apollo Moon landing missions and was also responsible for designing and developing space shuttle technology. Since then, it has evolved into a hub for space exploration, research, learning, and discovery.
Stepping into Space Center Houston, visitors are greeted by a stunning 90-foot tall replica of a space shuttle, which hangs overhead in the entrance plaza. This awe-inspiring sight sets the tone for the entire visit, showcasing the immense scale and ambition of space exploration.
Inside, visitors can explore a range of exhibits and attractions that showcase the history of space exploration, including real-life spacecraft such as the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo capsules. The center has also preserved artifacts from some of the most famous space missions, including the lunar samples brought back from the Apollo missions.
Space Center Houston is more than a museum, as it offers a wealth of educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. The center's workshops, interactive exhibits, and programs provide numerous STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning opportunities for students of all ages.
One of the most popular programs is the \"Space Center University,\" which is a week-long program that provides high school and college students with hands-on experience in space engineering, geology, and more. The center also hosts a range of summer camps, robotics programs, and other science camps that are designed to inspire and teach kids about science and technology.
One of the highlights of a visit to Space Center Houston is the tram tour, which takes visitors on a guided tour of the NASA Johnson Space Center. During the tour, visitors can see mission control, astronaut training facilities, and even the Saturn V rocket used during the Apollo missions. It's a unique opportunity to see firsthand where astronauts live and work while they're on missions outside of Earth's atmosphere.
Space Center Houston is a must-visit destination for anyone who is interested in space exploration, history, and science. It offers an unparalleled experience that is both educational and inspiring, with exhibits and programs that are fun and engaging for visitors of all ages.
As William P. McCurdy, Space Center Houston's Board of Directors Chairman, said, \"Space Center Houston represents a gateway to the stars, a place where everyone can learn about the past, present, and future of space exploration. It's a place where dreams come true, and where the impossible becomes possible.\"
So visit Space Center Houston and experience for yourself the thrill of space exploration. It's truly an experience you'll never forget.
Houston TX Houston Museum of Natural Science
