The California Science Center has completed construction of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, marking a major milestone in a $450 million expansion that will significantly increase exhibition capacity and public engagement with aerospace science.
.jpg)
The 200,000-square-foot addition nearly doubles the institution’s exhibit space and will serve as the permanent home of Space Shuttle Endeavour. Construction began in June 2022 and concluded four years later, with crews now shifting focus to installing artifacts and interactive displays ahead of an official opening date.
The new facility is designed to house approximately 100 aerospace artifacts alongside another 100 hands-on exhibits, offering visitors immersive experiences across multiple levels focused on flight and space exploration.
A key highlight of the project is its unique presentation of the space shuttle system. The center will be the only location in the world where a complete shuttle stack — including boosters and external tank — is displayed in a vertical, launch-ready configuration.
Visitors will be able to explore the system through three multi-level galleries, providing a rare perspective on both atmospheric and space flight technologies.
“Through the development of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, the California Science Center is fulfilling a decades-long dream,” said Jeffrey Rudolph, president and CEO of the museum. “This amazing project significantly expands our ability to accomplish our mission, to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone, on a scale and with an impact unlike anything in our history.”
Rudolph added that the project represents the culmination of a long-term master plan and will serve as “an enduring source of inspiration for generations of scientists, engineers and explorers.”
The building, designed by ZGF Architects, features a curvilinear stainless-steel exterior inspired by the aerodynamic form of the shuttle. Rising 200 feet, the structure has become a prominent addition to the Los Angeles skyline.
Construction was led by MATT Construction, with engineering support from Arup. The project achieved LEED Silver certification, reflecting its sustainability and efficiency standards.
One of the most complex aspects of the build involved erecting a 2,000-ton curved diagrid structure over the shuttle without causing any damage.
“The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center was truly a project of passion for everyone involved,” said Steven F. Matt. “One of the greatest challenges was constructing the 2,000-ton curved diagrid structure over Space Shuttle Endeavour—completed successfully without a single scratch.”
Additional artifacts already installed include a Hawker Siddeley Harrier T.4 aircraft and a Rocket Lab Electron launch vehicle, along with shuttle components such as a main engine and a solid rocket booster segment.
The project involved approximately 1,500 workers across multiple trades and disciplines and is being overseen by project director Dennis R. Jenkins.
To date, more than $390 million has been raised from public and private sources toward the total project cost. Officials said exhibit installation will continue over the coming months, with an official opening date to be announced later.
Originally reported by Martin Chomsky (Defence Industry Europe) in Defence Industry.
.png)
.png)
