Coca-Cola Space Science Center | Columbus City

The Coca-Cola Space Science Center (CCSSC), located in Columbus, Georgia, is a premier educational and public outreach facility dedicated to space science, astronomy, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Operated by Columbus State University, the center serves as both a museum and a dynamic learning environment designed to inspire curiosity and promote scientific understanding among visitors of all ages.

Historical Background and Purpose

Established in 1996, the Coca-Cola Space Science Center is Georgia’s only science center specializing exclusively in space science. Its creation was driven by the goal of fostering public appreciation for astronomy and space exploration, while also supporting educational initiatives in STEM fields throughout the region. The center plays a crucial role in nurturing future generations of scientists, engineers, and innovators by providing hands-on, interactive experiences that complement formal education.

Facilities and Campus

The center’s facility is thoughtfully designed to engage visitors through immersive technologies and interactive exhibits. It encompasses:

The Omnisphere Planetarium Theater with a cutting-edge full-dome digital projection system.

The Challenger Learning Center, a simulation space for realistic space missions.

The WestRock Observatory equipped with advanced telescopes for public and educational use.

Exhibition galleries housing unique NASA artifacts.

Educational classrooms and spaces for workshops and camps.

The campus environment blends high-tech features with educational spaces conducive to learning and exploration.

Main Attractions and Exhibits

1. Omnisphere Planetarium Theater

This is the heart of the center’s public programming. The Omnisphere uses a full-dome projection system to create stunning, immersive astronomical visuals covering a wide array of topics such as the formation of stars and galaxies, black holes, planetary science, and human spaceflight. The planetarium shows vary in complexity to suit audiences from young children to adults. Programs include titles like Wonders of the Universe, Earth, Moon & Sun, and Astronaut, which simulates life aboard the International Space Station.

2. Challenger Learning Center

This unique facility provides simulated space missions, allowing participants to role-play as astronauts and mission control specialists. These interactive exercises teach problem-solving, teamwork, and real-world scientific concepts in an engaging, hands-on manner. The center is part of a national network of Challenger Learning Centers dedicated to space-themed education, enhancing students’ understanding of space exploration and STEM skills.

3. WestRock Observatory

Home to a 24-inch PlaneWave CDK telescope and a collection of over 20 portable telescopes, the observatory offers regular public star-gazing events and astronomy education programs. Visitors can view planets, stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects through powerful telescopes, often guided by expert astronomers. The observatory also supports remote telescope access for educational institutions and mobile astronomy outreach programs that bring the wonders of the night sky to a wider audience.

4. NASA Artifact Collection

One of the center’s unique highlights is its extensive NASA artifact collection, which is the largest space shuttle artifact collection in Georgia. Valued at nearly $20 million, this collection includes authentic items flown multiple times in space, such as a Space Shuttle Main Engine Nozzle used in nine missions, consoles from the Kennedy Space Center Firing Room 3, and a Space Shuttle Escape Basket. These artifacts provide a tangible link to America’s space exploration history and inspire visitors with stories of human ingenuity and courage.

5. Guzzle Vortex Exhibit

This newer, interactive exhibit targets younger audiences with engaging activities that teach principles of aerodynamics and space science. Through a maze of suction-powered tubes, children guide colorful fabric pieces while learning about airflow and motion, blending play with education in a fun and memorable way.

Educational Programs and Outreach

The Coca-Cola Space Science Center places significant emphasis on education through a variety of programs designed for different age groups:

School Field Trips: Customized tours and hands-on activities aligned with state educational standards offer immersive experiences for K–12 students.

Summer Camps: STEM-focused camps provide multi-day learning experiences where children and teens explore science through experiments, simulations, and group projects.

Public Events and Workshops: The center regularly hosts events such as GA STEM Day, rocket launches, robotics demonstrations, and 3D printing workshops that engage the wider community in science and technology.

Teacher Training: Professional development workshops help educators integrate STEM subjects effectively in their classrooms using center resources.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

The center is designed to be accessible and welcoming to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The facility provides:

Regularly scheduled planetarium shows suitable for families, students, and adults.

Special events and themed programs aligned with celestial phenomena such as eclipses and meteor showers.

Interactive exhibits that encourage exploration and curiosity.

Friendly, knowledgeable staff and volunteers who assist visitors and enhance the learning experience.

Gift shop offering science-themed merchandise and educational materials.

Operational Details

Location: 701 Front Avenue, Columbus, Georgia 31901, situated conveniently near downtown Columbus.

Hours of Operation: Open Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Sundays.

Admission Fees: Adults $8, Seniors and Military $7, Children ages 4–10 $6, and free admission for children under 3.

The center also offers group rates and special pricing for educational programs.

Significance

The Coca-Cola Space Science Center is an essential resource in the Southeast for space science education and public engagement. It combines advanced technology, authentic space artifacts, and interactive learning to inspire visitors with the wonders of the universe and the excitement of scientific discovery. By bridging the gap between formal education and informal learning, the center plays a vital role in preparing young people for careers in STEM fields and cultivating a lifelong interest in science and exploration.

The CCSSC is not only a museum but a community hub for education, innovation, and inspiration, fostering a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos and the ongoing human quest to explore beyond Earth.