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We're open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.
A Space Science Learning Experience
The Columbia Memorial Space Center welcomes young people to explore space science like they never have before. With hands-on robotics presentations and its very own Challenger Learning Center, the CMSC has become a staple institution in Downey, and the Los Angeles Area.
The Columbia Memorial Space Center is the only space science learning center in the Los Angeles area dedicated to hands-on robotics and boasts LA’s only Challenger Learning Center. We are also dedicated to preserving the history of aerospace engineering in Downey. During you visit, you will learn about Downey’s place in the exploration of space flight, from the Apollo capsules to the Space Shuttle Orbiters.
We are currently working to preserve and display several major space engineering artifacts, ranging from test capsules to a full-scale Space Shuttle mock-up. These items currently reside in the Downey Studios main buildings, located directly across the street from our Center. Every Apollo Command Module and Space Shuttle were conceptualized, designed and assembled in these buildings. Currently, the DS buildings are not open to the public.
Our goal is to teach young people about careers in space exploration and aviation. We focus on engineering, technology and science. Our subjects include:
- Human and Robot Space Exploration
- The Principles of Flight and Aeronautics
- Current NASA Programs and Technology
- The Space Shuttle Columbia
- The Aerospace History of Downey
- Our Earth and Solar System
