Synopsis: Born out of tragedy, the Challenger Learning Center is a living memorial to the crew of the shuttle orbiter Challenger. It is part of an international network of centers established by the families of the Challenger crew. Today, there are a total of 25 centers-MOSI houses the first one in the state of Florida. The 21st century classroom features two simulators: a space station and a mission control. Each mission is based upon a scenario. MOSI combines programs in its Challenger Learning Center with planetarium shows, and a major exhibition on "Space, Flight, and Beyond" to educate the public about space science.

Size: 1,200 square feet

Location: Third floor Communications Gallery

Number of hands-on components: 16 duty stations

Highlights:

• MOSI's Challenger Learning Center opened to the public in February 1990. It was retrofitted in January 1996 with a new computer network and robots.
• Students from as far away a Washington State, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico have taken part in MOSI's mini-flights.
• Programs are available for the general public, school groups, corporate team building workshops, and overnight Camp-Ins.
• Activities include working with computers, robots, and hands-on applications of science, math, and technology to inspire interest in space science and related career fields.
• January 1996 marked the 10 year anniversary of the Challenger disaster.
  

Major donors: GTE