Welcome to Space Center Houston, the gateway to the universe for many Texans and visitors from around the globe. This iconic space explores the epic journeys of human spaceflight and offers an unrivaled close-up look at the wonders of space exploration. As the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Space Center Houston has ignited the imaginations of over a million visitors each year, making it a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by the stars.
Since its opening on October 16, 1992, Space Center Houston has become a treasured educational foundation, showcasing over 400 space artifacts including historical spacecraft and the chance to touch a real Moon rock. The center offers an incredible array of exhibits from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs to the forefront of NASA’s current mission—to return to the Moon and beyond. Guests can marvel at the Apollo 17 command module, explore the lunar module test vehicle, and even enter the space shuttle replica Independence, uniquely mounted on the original NASA 905 shuttle carrier aircraft.
Source: spacecenter.org
Space Center Houston hosts a variety of special events, educational programs, and activities for all ages, making science and space exploration accessible to everyone. From meeting NASA astronauts to participating in immersive experiences that simulate space missions, there’s always something new and exciting. The center’s robust schedule includes Sensory Friendly Events, Girl Scouts Overnights, and the must-attend Space Exploration Educators Conference, all designed to inspire and educate in a fun, interactive environment.
Planning a visit? Space Center Houston is open to explorers of all ages from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering a rich educational excursion that goes beyond the classroom. While walk-ins are welcome, purchasing your tickets online in advance can save you time. Membership options are available for those who can’t get enough of space, offering unlimited visits for a year among other stellar benefits. Upgrades to your visit can include closer encounters with NASA’s operational facilities or even lunch with an astronaut, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Whether you’re a local resident or a curious visitor, Space Center Houston invites you to step inside its doors and embark on an exciting journey through the history and future of human spaceflight. With hands-on exhibits, real-life spacecraft, and captivating education programs, it’s a place where giant leaps start, and the dreams of exploring the final frontier are alive and well. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the wonders of space and science, and perhaps, leave a little more inspired to reach for the stars.
