A space science learning centre is set to be developed on the former National Aeronotics and Space Administration (NASA) site in the City of Downey, southern California, US.

The redevelopment project aims to pay tribute to the Columbia Space Shuttle crew who lost their lives during an uncontrolled re-entry to the earth’s atmosphere in 2003.

The proposed Columbia Memorial Space Science & Learning Center will educate the public on the 70-year legacy of aviation and aerospace history via space science education programmes.

The Challenger Learning Center zone will feature a simulated space mission, where students can work in teams at Mission Control and aboard a Space Station to test their decision-making skills, solve problems and communicate by alternative means. Teachers will be able to use pre- and post-flight activities to integrate the experience into traditional classroom instruction.

The Space Science Discovery zone will provide visitors with interactive exhibits to help them explore the principles of flight, living in space, the search for life beyond earth and the origins of the universe.

The Mars Robotics Lab will allow young visitors to design and programme their own robots to complete a remote exploration mission to the planet Mars.

The Aerospace Resource Center and Research Library will catalogue and archive artefacts and records left at the former NASA site.

In addition, historical displays and a mock-up of the space shuttle Orbiter will tell the story of those involved in the aviation and aerospace industry.

The advisory committee on the project said: “When the center opens on the 160-acre former Boeing/NASA site, it will serve people of all ages and be recognized as an important regional and national center of learning.

“It will operate as a division of the Department of Community Services of the City of Downey.

“Educational programs will contribute to a more scientifically and technologically literate citizenry, and exhibits will commemorate the history of the aerospace industry in Downey. The Learning Center will symbolize the multi-faceted science and technology learning activities conducted in the building and via distance learning throughout the world.

“It will be a popular meeting place for social and business groups by youth, educators, families and community members participating in educational and public programs and activities.”

US-based architect Arquitectonica and affiliate landscape architect Arquitectonica GEO have designed the new educational attraction.

The project team comprises NASA, NASA/Jet Propulsion Laboratory (NASA JPL), Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE), Aerospace Legacy Foundation (ALF), Honeywell Challenger Learning Center and the City of Downey.

The development – which is set to open to the public in early 2008 – will also include a 1.7 million sq ft (158,000sq m) movie studio, a hospital and a retail park. Details: www.columbiaspacescience.org

Photograph: courtesy of Arquitectonica