Thursday, March 28, 2024
Array

Endeavour Pavilion Opens to Public at California Science Center

Nichelle Nichols (Star Trek) and June Lockhart (Lost in Space) pose with Endeavour.
Courtesy California Science Center.

Los Angeles, CA, USA (Oct. 31, 2012) /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — A Grand Opening Ceremony inaugurated the Space Shuttle Endeavour Exhibition yesterday morning with remarks from Governor Jerry Brown, DirectorDavid McBride, NASA’s Dryden Flight Research Center, California Science Center President Jeffrey N. Rudolph, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts. Also present to witness the event, which took place in the Samuel Oschin Pavilion, was Philanthropist Lynda Oschin, widow of Samuel Oschin and Chair of the Board and Secretary of the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation and astronauts James M. Kelly, R. Shane Kimbrough, Leland D. Melvin (Administrator),Barbara R. Morgan (retired) and Garrett E. Reisman (retired).

Bill Nye the Science Guy served as Master of Ceremonies of the event which included business, community and philanthropic leaders as well as more than 500 Science Center School students. A highlight of the event was a performance of “Men in Black” choreographed by the legendary Debbie Allen and performed by the Debbie Allen Dance Academy and solos sung by Grammy Award-winning James Ingram and America’s Got Talent finalist Sebastien De La Cruz.

“We are delighted that the California Science Center will use Endeavour to inspire a new generation of scientists and explorers and we thank you for helping tell the story of NASA’s historic past as we begin to write the stories of the future today,” said David McBride, Director of NASA’s Dryden Flight Research Center. “The next chapter in space exploration begins now, and we’re standing on the shoulders of the men and women of the shuttle program to reach farther into the solar system.”

California Science Center President Jeffrey Rudolph said, “I want to thank the people of California and theLos Angeles region for so enthusiastically welcoming Endeavour home. Today marks the beginning of Endeavour’s new mission to inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers.”

Mayor Villaraigosa added, “Having Endeavour at the California Science Center will serve to motivate millions of young people to dream about possibilities and will attract people from around the world to our great city. The Endeavour, as a historical treasure, will be a brilliant centerpiece for Los Angeles and will assist in our city’s economic revitalization.”

Rudolph also reminded participants that their contributions are still welcome for EndeavourLA, a comprehensive fundraising campaign to raise $100 million, to create the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, and support ongoing programs and operations. Members of the public can donate by visiting www.BringEndeavourHome.org. In addition to making a general donation to support EndeavourLA, the public can sponsor a thermal protection system tile and be associated with Endeavour forever. Sponsorship levels begin at $1,000.

The new Samuel Oschin Pavilion is now open to the public. Space Shuttle Endeavour Exhibition viewing times are 10 am, with the last entry at 3:45 pm. Although it is free admission, timed tickets are recommended for a small fee of $3 for non-members and $2 for members who reserve online at www.californiasciencecenter.org.

About the California Science Center
The California Science Center is a dynamic destination where families, adults and children can explore the wonders of science through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, innovative programs and awe-inspiring films. Its mission is as follows:” We aspire to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone by creating fun, memorable experiences, because we value science as an indispensable tool for understanding our world, accessibility and inclusiveness, and enriching people’s lives.”

The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 Exposition Park Drive. The Science Center is open daily from 10:00 a.m.– 5:00 pm. 

Joe Kleiman
Joe Kleimanhttp://wwww.themedreality.com
Raised in San Diego on theme parks, zoos, and IMAX films, InPark's Senior Correspondent Joe Kleiman would expand his childhood loves into two decades as a projectionist and theater director within the giant screen industry. In addition to his work in commercial and museum operations, Joe has volunteered his time to animal husbandry at leading facilities in California and Texas and has played a leading management role for a number of performing arts companies. Joe previously served as News Editor and has remained a contributing author to InPark Magazine since 2011. HIs writing has also appeared in Sound & Communications, LF Examiner, Jim Hill Media, The Planetarian, Behind the Thrills, and MiceChat His blog, ThemedReality.com takes an unconventional look at the attractions industry. Follow on twitter @ThemesRenewed Joe lives in Sacramento, California with his wife, dog, and a ghost.

Related Articles

Latest Articles