The California Science Center's new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is a marvel, showcasing NASA's space shuttle Endeavour and other space artifacts. The center's president and CEO, Jeffrey Rudolph, shared insights into the ongoing installation process. The Kent Kresa Space Gallery, named after a former business leader, will feature three themes: 'Rocket Science', 'Robots in Space', and 'Humans in Space'. The gallery already boasts a space shuttle main engine (SSME), a walkthrough segment of a shuttle solid rocket booster, and a Rocket Lab Electron rocket. The Electron, a significant addition, stands tall in a central staircase, symbolizing cutting-edge technology from startup companies. Rocket Lab, founded in New Zealand and now based in Long Beach, developed the Electron as the first carbon-composite launch vehicle for the small satellite market. It has achieved 75 successful missions, making it the third most launched small-lift rocket in history. The SSME and solid rocket segment are on the second floor, focusing on space launch methods. The center will also display NASA's Mercury-Redstone 2 capsule, the Gemini 11 spacecraft, the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project command module, a SpaceX Dragon cargo capsule, and a Spacehab logistics module. Additionally, the center plans to add about 100 exhibits to provide context for the spacecraft and hardware on display. The Korean Air Aviation Gallery will showcase 20 aircraft in three areas: 'Learning to Fly', 'Everyday Flight', and 'Advanced Aviation'. The space shuttle Endeavour, the most anticipated artifact, is being kept out of sight until the finishing touches are complete. The solid rocket boosters and external tank are unveiled, but the shuttle itself remains wrapped and protected. The opening date for the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is yet to be announced, as the center is still under construction.
