Growing up, we were huge fans of the space program. Heck, we were practically raised in it with family working at different spectrums of it the program through Hughes Aircraft, Boeing, Parker Hannifin and JPL. So, I was absolutely delighted when I received an invitation to the media tour of the new Endeavor Exhibit at the California Science Center in Los Angeles and check out the new Giant Lever Exhibit which allows guests to lift a Toyota truck. (All opinions of the Science Center and exhibits are my own)
We started off the day with the unveiling of the Toyota Tundra the one that towed the Space Shuttle Endeavor across the Manchester Bridge in Los Angelesr. It’s a Toyota Tundra CrewMax 1/2 ton pick up with a standard V-8 engine. Now, with the help of a Giant Lever, guests of the California Science Center are able muscle up that 6,645lb truck.
The kids certainly had fun trying to lift the Tundra from each of the different rope positions. The farthest rope away from the Tundra is easiest to actually lift the vehicle.
We had the opportunity to meet Garrett Reisman, an American engineer and former NASA astronaut who flew on 3 different space missions and was aboard the space station for 95 days.Then we were ushered into the California Science Center to get a private tour of the Endeavor Exhibit. There you can touch the tires from the landing gear and get an in depth look at the “facilities”.
Once we made our way through the exhibit and then made our way down stairs to the Endeavor. When I walked through the doors, I was literally speechless and full of goosebumps. What an amazing sight the Endeavor is, and you can practically touch it. That’s all I can say, because you really have to experience it for yourself!!!
So, make a plan to visit the California Science Center, where your family can explore the interactive exhibits, live demonstrations and innovative programs. A few of the exhibits include:
- Ecosystems: hands on science exhibits with 11 immersive environments
- Creative World: Learn about computer technology, digital imaging to solar cars and earthquake resistant buildings.
- World of Life: Focuses on single-celled bacterium to the 100 trillion-celled human being.
- The Endeavor: Celebrates the Endeavour’s scientific achievements.
Entrance to the Science Center is free, however, if you are interested in the IMAX 2D and 3D there is a fee for that. And you can find out more information about the exhibits and events at the California Science Center by visiting their website: https://www.californiasciencecenter.org/
What a great experience for you and your kids. I took mine to Johnson Space center a few years back and they absolutely LOVED all the space exhibits. Nice that I don’t have to go so far now. Just from Orange county to LA county.
What an amazing place that must be. I love everything science-too bad I live on the opposite coast or I would go there in a heartbeat!
That looks like so much fun! We went to a science center here in Ohio and while it was fun, it didn’t look nearly like that!
That looks really fun! I always have a blast when we go to NASA in Houston! If I’m ever in California, I’ll for sure check this place out!
I have been meaning to take my kids, you’ve inspired me to go next week!
My son would absolutely love this. Such a great experience for the kids.
What a great opportunity!
We love the CA Science Center!
I can’t wait to take the kids to this!