Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has announced The Gantry at LC-39, an innovative, interactive experience that reimagines the historic gantry of Launch Complex 39, located among the most iconic launch pads in space exploration. Slated to open in early 2025, the attraction will showcase LC-39’s location within a national wildlife refuge, highlighting the perfect blend of humanity’s significant achievements and the beauty of planet Earth.
Accessible via the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour, The Gantry at LC-39 offers an unprecedented 360° view of Kennedy Space Center and the active launch pads, as well as a host of immersive exhibits and experiences. Its central theme, Off Earth, For Earth, explores the vital relationship between technology and nature and underscores NASA’s ongoing mission to protect Earth through space exploration.
“The Gantry at LC-39 is an exciting step forward in our mission to inspire and educate the next generation of explorers,” said Therrin Protze, Director of Operations for the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. “This new attraction brings together stories surrounding NASA’s research to observe our planet and innovative, interactive experiences to offer a deeper connection to the space program through a unique and dramatic lens. This attraction will thrill and educate all ages.”
Key features of The Gantry at LC-39 will include:
Earth Information Center (EIC): A dynamic data center featuring an immersive theater, captivating giant screen and interactive exhibit gallery, providing a holistic view of how the planet is changing in ways that impact all life on Earth.
Interactive Rocket Building: Visitors can virtually design and launch rockets, experiencing the thrill of spaceflight from a launch site near Kennedy Space Center’s working spaceports.
Launch Zone: A prime location to view real rocket launches, with a large LED screen that continuously plays multimedia content to enhance the experience.
Interactive Exhibits: Educational activities, including gaming 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 visitors of all ages can stand beneath an impressive, full-scale rocket engine as it simulates a static test fire, feeling the power and excitement of a rocket ignition. A roar of sound, light and cooling mist create a mind-blowing thrill.
Animal Sculpture Garden: Climbing sculptures of sea turtles, alligators and an eagle’s nest, as well as interpretive graphics, tell the story of Kennedy Space Center’s home within the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. At the center, a fragment of a dormant Mobile Launch Pad connects visitors to nearby historic launch pads.
Outdoor Dining: A comfortable, covered space for visitors to relax and enjoy a self-serve meal next to the Crawlerway, as well as a Crawler-Transporter tread device.
Fuente: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.