California Science Center Opens New Space Gallery
A new partnership with JPL brings extensive aerospace artifacts and interactive exhibits to Los Angeles.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Space
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The California Science Center and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory have partnered to debut the Kent Kresa Space Gallery. The collaboration is housed within the upcoming 200,000-square-foot expansion of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center.
Why it matters
This partnership aims to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning by providing public access to decades of space exploration research. It marks the latest milestone in a 40-year collaborative relationship between the two Los Angeles-based institutions.
The expansion will feature artifacts and models representing six decades of JPL exploration. Visitors can engage with hands-on exhibits that include building a robotic spacecraft and programming a miniature Mars rover.
The players
California Science Center
This major Los Angeles museum is dedicated to science education and serves as the hosting institution for the new space gallery.
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Headquartered in Pasadena, this federally funded research and development center manages robotic space missions for NASA.
The details
The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center expansion is expected to nearly double the museum's total exhibit space. Visitors can explore the collection for a $4 reservation fee, though this cost is waived for current Science Center members.
Timeline
October 27, 2026: Announcement of the partnership
October 28, 2026: Scheduled media preview
November 13, 2026: Opening of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center
The Big Picture
This project continues a legacy of public-facing education established by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The gallery shifts the museum experience from static observation to active participation in space mission simulations.
Local residents and visitors can access the new exhibits for a $4 reservation fee starting this November. Members of the California Science Center will receive free access to the new space gallery.
The takeaway
The upcoming opening provides a unique opportunity for students and families to engage with complex aerospace engineering. Visitors planning to attend should book reservations early to secure access to the expansive new wing.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in aerospace and discovery at the Space section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by My News LA.
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