Construction concludes four years after the June 2022 groundbreaking. With the building finished, installation of historic artifacts and interactive exhibits is now underway.
The new center will feature around 100 aerospace artifacts alongside 100 hands-on exhibits. It is designed to support active learning and public engagement with science and engineering.
The facility will be the only location in the world to display a complete space shuttle system in a vertical, launch-ready configuration. Visitors will be able to explore atmospheric flight and space exploration across three multi-level galleries.
Jeffrey Rudolph, President and CEO of the California Science Center, said: “Through the development of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, the California Science Center is fulfilling a decades-long dream.” He added: “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. It is the culmination of our ambitious three-decade master plan.”
He further stated: “The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center will stand as an enduring source of inspiration for generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers – and we cannot wait to share it with the world.”
The building was designed by ZGF Architects with a distinctive curvilinear stainless-steel exterior inspired by the aerodynamic form of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Its structure reaches a height of 200 feet, making it a prominent landmark visible across Los Angeles.
Ted Hyman, Partner at ZGF Architects, said: “At the outset of this project we challenged ourselves to achieve something that has never been done before: to design the only place in the world for the public to see a space shuttle in launch position.” He added: “We are proud to deliver an iconic architecture that translates the California Science Center’s moonshot ambition into an approachable experience that feels welcoming, immersive, and engaging to all.”
The building was constructed by MATT Construction and engineered by Arup. It has achieved LEED Silver certification and provides unobstructed views of the shuttle and other exhibits.
Steven F. Matt, Chairman of MATT Construction, said: “The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center was truly a project of passion for everyone involved.” He added: “From our leadership team to the skilled tradespeople on site, there was an extraordinary sense of pride in delivering this historic project.”
He continued: “One of the greatest challenges was constructing the 2,000 ton curved diagrid structure over Space Shuttle Endeavour—completed successfully without a single scratch.” He added: “This project stands as a tribute to the generations who built our aerospace legacy and will continue to inspire children for decades to come.”
The completion follows several earlier milestones in the project. In early 2024, Space Shuttle Endeavour was lifted into its vertical configuration with solid rocket boosters and the ET-94 external tank.
Additional artifacts have since been installed, including a Hawker Siddeley Harrier T.4 and a Rocket Lab Electron launch vehicle. A Space Shuttle Main Engine and a solid rocket booster segment have also been added to the exhibits.
The project has involved approximately 1,500 workers across multiple disciplines. It is managed by Project Director Dennis R. Jenkins, who oversees both construction and exhibit installation.
Rudolph said: “Thanks to the generosity of so many foundations, individuals and corporate supporters, and the dedication of our talented staff and project team, the California Science Center has reached this exciting milestone.” He added: “The support we’ve received has propelled us closer to opening the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center and serves as an investment in the future of science learning.”
The project has received support from public and private donors. More than $390 million has been raised toward a total project budget of $450 million.
Installation of exhibits is expected to continue for several months. An official opening date will be announced at a later stage.
