Full Breakdown
California Science Center Completes Construction of Samuel Oschin Air & Space Center
4/13/2026, 8:41:04 PM
Major Milestone Achieved
The California Science Center announced the completion of construction on the Samuel Oschin Air & Space Center on April 13, 2026. This new 200,000-square-foot facility, which is part of a $450 million expansion project, will nearly double the museum's exhibit space and serve as the permanent home for the retired Space Shuttle Endeavour. The project, which began with a groundbreaking in June 2022, is a culmination of a master plan initiated in 1993.
Architectural Innovation and Design
Designed by ZGF Architects, the Samuel Oschin Air & Space Center features a striking 20-story structure characterized by a curvilinear stainless-steel exterior. The building's unique architectural identity is inspired by the aerodynamic shape of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Ted Hyman, a partner at ZGF, emphasized the design's intention to create an immersive experience, stating, “you don’t have a sense there’s a building at all.” The center will house three galleries: the Samuel Oschin Shuttle Gallery, the Korean Air Aviation Gallery, and the Kent Kresa Space Gallery, showcasing a variety of aerospace artifacts and interactive exhibits.
Artifact Installation and Educational Goals
As construction concludes, the focus has shifted to the installation of over 100 aerospace artifacts and 100 hands-on exhibits. Notable installations include a SpaceX Cargo Dragon and a 747 flight simulation. Jeffrey Rudolph, President and CEO of the California Science Center, expressed enthusiasm for the educational potential of the center, stating that it aims to inspire children and foster a love for science. He noted, “Kids get turned off to science very early... when they come to the science center, it’s like a whole new world opens up to them.”
Funding and Community Support
The project has received substantial financial backing, with over $390 million raised toward the $450 million budget. Key contributors include the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation, Korean Air, and the Kresa Family Foundation, among others. Rudolph acknowledged the importance of community support, stating, “The support we've received has propelled us closer to opening the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center.”
Criticism and Future Plans
While the project has garnered significant support, some critics have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of such a large-scale initiative. However, Rudolph remains optimistic, indicating that the center is designed for longevity, aiming to serve the community for the next 50 years. He anticipates announcing an official opening date this summer, with hopes to coincide with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This space shuttle is everything rolled into one that my husband loved: astronomy, innovation, exploration, science, math and especially children,” — Lynda Oschin, Philanthropist
- “There’s a lot of amazing things going on in aviation and space, and a lot of it happening in California,” — Jeffrey Rudolph, President and CEO
- “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.” — Ted Hyman, ZGF Partner
The Samuel Oschin Air & Space Center is poised to become a landmark destination for science education and exploration, promising to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers.
