Designs Include A Home For A Flown Space Shuttle Orbiter

Design work has begun on a new master plan to transform NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex into a place where explorers of all ages can tour America's spaceport to engage with the people and machines that shape the future of our world. PGAV Destinations, a global leader in the planning and design of cultural and entertainment destinations, was selected by Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts at KSC, Inc., operators of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, to design the ten-year master plan.

New NASA Visitors Center Artist's Rendering

The new master plan will create excitement for guests as they discover the connection between NASA and their everyday lives. Immersive thematic zones will connect with guests of all ages in a personal way, integrating interactivity through exhibits and live presentations by astronauts and workers, while incorporating the unique role that Kennedy Space Center plays in human spaceflight and space exploration. Touring Kennedy Space Center will evolve into an expedition of a working space place, honoring the storied past of the human spaceflight program while embracing the future and celebrating the spirit of human determination.

The marquee element of the master plan for America's spaceport is a $100 million exhibit displaying a flown space shuttle orbiter. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has requested to be selected by NASA to display one of the three remaining orbiters. Initial design concepts for the 64,000 square-foot orbiter home include viewing the space shuttle in flight, showing how the spacecraft worked in space and providing a unique vantage point for guests looking at this remarkable vehicle up-close. Complementing the orbiter display will be interactive features reflecting major accomplishments of the Space Shuttle Program including the Hubble Space Telescope and construction of the International Space Station.

"We would be honored to showcase one of the space shuttle orbiters so we have begun designing a dynamic, interactive exhibit to tell the space shuttle story from our own unique perspective," said Bill Moore, Chief Operating Officer of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. "Kennedy Space Center is home to the space shuttle; all of the 132 missions have launched from here."

The master plan is funded through revenue generated by visitor admission, food and retail sales at no tax payer expense. It will showcase up to ten themed areas, plus new and enhanced visitor amenities, bringing authentic and exciting NASA programs to life. 

Delaware North Companies has operated Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and worked closely with NASA to tell the story of space exploration to millions of guests from around the world since 1995. In February 2010, NASA/Kennedy Space Center awarded Delaware North Companies the contract to continue operating Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

FMI: www.nasa.gov