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.