McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center | Concord NH

The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, located in Concord, New Hampshire, is a dynamic science museum and planetarium dedicated to space, astronomy, and aviation. Named in honor of Christa McAuliffe, the teacher-astronaut from the Challenger mission, and Alan Shepard, the first American in space, the center celebrates both New Hampshire’s contributions to space exploration and broader STEM education.

Setting and Design

The center is a modern facility featuring interactive exhibits, a large digital planetarium, and educational spaces designed to engage visitors of all ages. The building’s layout encourages exploration, with hands-on displays, flight simulators, and space-themed installations. The planetarium offers immersive shows that simulate the night sky, space travel, and celestial phenomena, providing both visual spectacle and educational content.

Exhibits and Programming

The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center offers a wide variety of exhibits and programs:

Space and Astronomy: Displays on planets, stars, and galaxies, including models and interactive demonstrations.

Flight and Aviation: Exhibits honoring Alan Shepard and other pioneers, with flight simulators and historical artifacts.

Hands-on Science: Interactive stations where visitors can experiment with physics, robotics, and engineering principles.

Planetarium Shows: Daily presentations and special programs covering astronomy, space exploration, and scientific discoveries.

Educational Outreach

The center serves as a hub for STEM education in the region:

School Programs: Field trips, workshops, and curriculum-aligned lessons in science and technology.

Public Lectures and Events: Talks by scientists, astronauts, and educators, engaging the community in scientific learning.

Youth Programs: Summer camps, science clubs, and hands-on activities designed to inspire curiosity in children and teens.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to the center can expect an interactive and immersive experience, combining education with entertainment:

Engage with interactive exhibits and flight simulators.

Explore the planetarium for breathtaking visual journeys through space.

Learn about New Hampshire’s connection to space history through Christa McAuliffe and Alan Shepard.

Local Atmosphere

Situated in Concord, the center benefits from its proximity to downtown amenities, including cafés, parks, and shops. It draws a mix of school groups, families, tourists, and science enthusiasts, creating a lively, inquisitive atmosphere that emphasizes learning, exploration, and community engagement.

Closing Impression

The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is both a tribute to New Hampshire’s space pioneers and a hands-on gateway to science and astronomy. Its interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and educational programming make it a standout destination for visitors of all ages, blending history, exploration, and inspiration in the heart of Concord.