Space Missions
Become an astronaut, scientist, or engineer in our immersive space mission experiences
Space mission simulations are the Challenger Learning Center’s core experience. In these immersive programs, participants use critical thinking, communication, and teamwork on board a spacecraft and in Mission Control.
Ages 6 to 10
Jr Astronauts (mini space mission + rocket workshop)
Junior Astronauts is a two-hour program that includes a space mission simulation and a rocket-building workshop.
Please note that the various missions are rotated throughout the year. Check our upcoming mission dates for details. School groups can indicate their preferred mission and/or date on the school interest form....
Space Station Odyssey
Astronauts will travel 230 miles above Earth to the International Space Station to investigate a mysterious object that has been spotted in space. While in space, these junior astronauts utilize their scientific, math, engineering, and teamwork skills and engage in experiments and activities to help NASA learn more about our world.
Mars Pioneers
The year is 2034 and a crew of astronauts are about to embark on a manned mission to Mars. During the 48-million-mile voyage, astronauts will perform the necessary work to navigate the spacecraft to the Red Planet and conduct research along the way.
Destination Moon
In the not-too-distant future, a crew of brave astronauts and engineers are about to embark on the first visit back to the Moon since 1972. Their goal is to build and launch a satellite to the Moon’s surface that will search for water, which serve as a valuable resource for future inhabitants.
Ages 11 & Up
Astronauts ages 11 and up can participate in a two-hour space mission, which can accommodate up to 30 participants. Half the group works in the spacecraft, while the other half guides and supports them from Mission Control.
Please note that the various missions are rotated throughout the year. Check our upcoming mission dates for details. School groups can indicate their preferred mission and/or date on the school interest form.
Rendezvous with a Comet
A crew of astronauts is being sent on a mission to explore Comet Encke. Along the way, astronauts use their scientific and creative problem-solving skills to deal with unexpected and highly unpredictable objects in the solar system that come their way.
Lunar Quest
In the not-too-distant future, astronauts and scientists research distant planets from one of several permanent habitats on the Moon. Directed from Mission Control at Moon Base Alpha, human-operated vehicles and rovers search for titanium and iron deposits. Although scouting for these locations is dangerous, it is critical to the expansion of lunar research.
Expedition Mars
The year is 2076 and scientists have finally built research facilities on the surface of Mars. A spacecraft regularly ferries astronauts and scientists between the surface of the Red Planet and the Martian moon Phobos. During a routine flight, the Phobos control team discovers a threat to the base on Mars. The teams must work together to assess the potential risks to the crew and their research facilities, and determine a course of action.
Corporate Groups
Return To The Moon
For the first time since the Apollo 17 mission, a crew of astronauts is embarking on a mission to return to the Moon. Participants’ collective problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills are put to the test as they strive to reach their destination and deal with any emergencies that arise. The program concludes with a mission debriefing to discuss participants’ responses to the challenges they faced and how they can apply the lessons learned to their everyday work.