Columbia Memorial Space Center

About

The Columbia Memorial Space Center, located in Downey, California, is a hands-on space museum and activity center dedicated to bringing the wonder and excitement of space science to visitors of all ages. The center features a 20,000 square foot visitor center equipped with engaging exhibits, a Robotics Lab, High Definition Computer Lab, and a range of interactive displays that provide insights into Space Shuttle operations, living and working on the International Space Station, and the exploration of our solar system. The Space Center also serves as the national memorial for the Space Shuttle Columbia’s seven crew members, lost in 2003. It is open to the general public Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, with special hours available for school groups. Admission is $5 per person, and children 3 years and younger are free. The center also hosts one of over 48 Challenger Learning Centers on the planet, offering immersive experiences such as “Return to the Moon,” “Rendezvous With a Comet,” and “Voyage to Mars,” allowing visitors to experience the real-life excitement of working in Mission Control or in the Spacecraft.