The Columbia Memorial Space Center recently showcased its restoration efforts for “Inspiration,” a full-scale space shuttle mockup originally built in 1972. This mockup, which served as a prototype for NASA’s shuttle program, will become the highlight of the museum’s planned expansion.
Once the restoration is completed, “Inspiration” will be housed in a new science learning complex. Visitors will have the opportunity to enter its 60-foot cargo bay and explore its flight deck, which will include interactive exhibits. The restoration will include cleaning and enhancements to both the cargo and deck areas.
The planned expansion will add over 40,000 square feet to the existing museum and will feature classrooms for STEM learning, outdoor spaces, and various interactive exhibits. The entire project is set to be finished by fall 2027 and will open to the public in spring 2028. The space center is seeking to raise $50 million through its Project Inspiration campaign to fund construction, exhibits, and educational programs.
The shuttle restoration site is located at 12140 Bellflower Blvd., while expansion construction is taking place at 12400 Columbia Way. The Columbia Memorial Space Center, which opened in 2009, is situated on the historic Downey site where NASA’s Apollo spacecraft and space shuttles were designed and constructed.
