Updated · Office of Governor Gavin Newsom · Jun 24
California Science Center Previews 200,000-Square-Foot Air and Space Center Before November Opening
Updated
Updated · Office of Governor Gavin Newsom · Jun 24
California Science Center Previews 200,000-Square-Foot Air and Space Center Before November Opening
2 articles · Updated · Office of Governor Gavin Newsom · Jun 24
Summary
The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center got its first public preview ahead of a November opening at Exposition Park, where it will expand the California Science Center and remain free to visitors.
The roughly 200,000-square-foot addition gives Space Shuttle Endeavour a permanent home in a vertical launch configuration with its external tank and twin boosters — described as the first authentic shuttle display in takeoff-ready position.
Endeavour, the last shuttle built, flew 25 missions after its 1992 debut, helped build the International Space Station, serviced Hubble and was assigned to the California Science Center after its final 2011 mission.
State officials cast the project as part of California's broader aerospace strategy, a sector they say contributes about $35 billion a year to state GDP and has drawn recent incentives for expansions and hiring.
Can a museum of past glory secure California's future in the commercial space race?
Will a shuttle monument be enough to keep cutting-edge space companies from leaving California?
Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center Grand Opening: 200,000 Square Feet of STEM Innovation and the Space Shuttle Endeavour Arrive in Los Angeles, November 2026
Overview
The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, opening November 13, 2026, marks a major milestone for the California Science Center. With construction now complete, this new center is designed to ignite curiosity and foster a deeper understanding of aerospace. It aims to be a transformative addition, making space exploration exciting and accessible for all. By embodying a 'giant leap' toward inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers, the center will play a key role in shaping future innovators and offering visitors an engaging journey into the wonders of air and space.