Innovative New Exhibit Honors Space Exploration While Looking Ahead to Earth’s Future
The Gantry at LC-39, an innovative and interactive experience that reimagines the historic Launch Complex 39 observation gantry, is now open at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida.
The attraction showcases LC-39’s location near iconic launch pads and within the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge on the Canaveral National Seashore, highlighting the ultimate blend of humankind’s significant achievements and the beauty of planet Earth.
The Gantry at LC-39 is accessible via the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Bus Tour and offers an unprecedented 360° view of KSC and active launch pads, as well as a range of immersive exhibits and experiences.
“The Gantry at LC-39 marks a bold step forward in our mission to spark curiosity and foster learning among the next generation of explorers,” said Therrin Protze, chief operating officer of the visitor complex, which Delaware North operates for NASA. “Located at the historic launch complex where Apollo and Shuttle missions once lifted off, this new attraction blends powerful storytelling, interactive technology and NASA’s ongoing Earth science research to create a memorable connection to the past, present and future of space exploration.”
Therrin Protze (top left), chief operating officer at the visitor complex, on July 10 addressed local media during a preview of The Gantry at LC-39, which features a test fire simulation (top right) and rocket building interactive exhibit (bottom).
Key features of The Gantry at LC-39 include:
- Earth Information Center (EIC): A dynamic data hub featuring an immersive theater show, captivating video wall display and an interactive exhibit gallery, providing a holistic view of how the planet is changing in ways that affect all life on Earth.
- Rocket Build Interactive: Guests can design and virtually launch rockets, experiencing the thrill of space flight from a launch site within view of KSC’s working space ports.
- Launch Viewing Area: A prime location to view real rocket launches, complete with a large LED screen that loops media content to enhance the experience.
- Interactive Exhibits: Educational activities, including gamified experiences where visitors can explore Launch Complexes 39A, 39B, 41, 40 and 37, using binoculars and informational graphics.
- Test Fire Simulation: A thrilling experience where guests of all ages can stand under an impressive, full-scale rocket engine as it simulates a static fire test, feeling the power and excitement of a rocket’s ignition. A roar of sound, light and cooling mist create a visceral thrill.
- Shaded Courtyard with Animal Play Sculptures: Climbable sculptures of sea turtles, alligators and an eagle nest, as well as interpretive graphics, tell the story of KSC’s home within the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. In the center, an artifact from a retired Mobile Launch Platform connects guests to the historic launch pads nearby.
- Outdoor Dining Area: A comfortable, shaded space for guests to relax and enjoy self-service dining adjacent to the Crawlerway as well as a Crawler-Transporter tread artifact.
The opening of The Gantry at LC-39 was covered by local news outlets, including Florida Today, Fox 35 Orlando and the Orlando Sentinel.
About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Go beyond imagination and into something real at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Get up close to real flight flown artifacts, meet a veteran NASA astronaut, feel the rumble of a rocket launch, and so much more. Just 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season. The popular two-day ticket, which can be used for up to six months from purchase and averages a cost of $45 per day, is now available for $91 per adult and $81 per child. Single-day admission is $77 per adult; $67 per child. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.