Plans in the Works to Expand Space Center Houston

Since 1992, Space Center Houston has served as the official Visitor Center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Space Center Houston features a number of exhibits and attractions, including the world’s largest collection of lunar samples. Last year, 800,000 people visited Space Center Houston, making it one of the major tourist attractions for the Greater Houston area.

On this edition of Houston Matters, we talk with Richard Allen, the CEO of Space Center Houston about expansion plans, which began with the recent arrival of one of NASA’s retired Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, a modified 747 which was used to transport Space Shuttle orbiters. In the coming years, that expansion will continue with exhibits focusing on future Mars mission plans.

Then, we’ll be joined by Steven González, from the Strategic Analysis and Integration Office at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, as we consider Space City’s role in America’s space future, including the potential for an annual “Space Commerce” conference here. We also welcome your questions about the role NASA and Johnson Space Center might play in an industry that is increasingly becoming focused on privatization.