Step into the roles of astronauts and mission control with Lockport’s Challenger Learning Center. Engage in a thrilling space simulation and complement it with a rich, live planetarium show that brings the cosmos into vivid focus.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Light physical demand; ability to sit on floor and move around simulator stations comfortably.
Wildlife
History
Lockport played a crucial role in the Erie Canal system’s development in the early 19th century, shaping regional transport and industry.
Conservation
The Challenger Learning Center promotes sustainability by using digital simulations to reduce waste while inspiring future environmental stewardship through education.
Challenger Learning Center of Orleans, Niagara & Erie Counties
Step into the roles of astronauts and mission control with Lockport’s Challenger Learning Center. Engage in a thrilling space simulation and complement it with a rich, live planetarium show that brings the cosmos into vivid focus.
Challenger Learning Center of Orleans, Niagara & Erie Counties is a science education nonprofit located in Lockport, New York. The center operates a hands-on Space Station Simulator and a professional planetarium, offering immersive STEM programs for birthday parties, school field trips, team-building events, and community gatherings.
Programs include timed Space Mission experiences—ranging from 1.5-hour missions to extended 2.5- and 3-hour party formats—that place participants in simulated roles working with Mission Control on scenarios such as Expedition Mars. The facility also offers a Planetarium Party using a Digitarium Delta 4 system, private planetarium shows, and a Mobile Planetarium Rental that fits up to 20 adults or 25 children for on-site events. Younger learners can join seasonal programs such as the Robotics Club FLL Fall 2025, designed for ages 9 to 14, with flexible scheduling from August through November and a culminating competition in Buffalo. The center emphasizes hands-on problem solving, teamwork, and real-world science skills through guided simulations and interactive presentations. Staff and instructors facilitate missions and planetarium shows, and events can include space-themed celebrations with cake and pizza in designated party spaces. Facility offerings are suitable for a wide range of group sizes and ages, and equipment details like dome capacity and simulator timeframes are provided for planning. The Challenger Learning Center of Orleans, Niagara & Erie Counties supports educational outcomes by combining experiential STEM programming with community access to space science resources. Programs accommodate schools, birthday groups, scouts, and corporate teams seeking unique science-focused experiences in Western New York.
Location
Lockport, NY
Located in Lockport, New York
Session Length
1.5–3 hours
Simulator and party timeframes
Robotics Ages
Ages 9–14
Seasonal Aug–Nov; Buffalo competition
Planetarium Capacity
Up to 25 children
Mobile dome: 20 adults or 25 children
Plan a mission, planetarium party, or Mobile Planetarium Rental in Lockport, NY — check availability and scheduling details.
Comfortable Seating Prep
The planetarium show requires sitting on the floor; ensure you can sit and rise comfortably for a better experience.
Arrive Early
Give yourself 10-15 minutes before your scheduled mission to get oriented and briefed by staff.
Group Size Consideration
If your group is under 10 people, a flat fee applies; consider joining with others to minimize cost.
Hands-On Participation
The simulation requires active participation and teamwork; come ready to engage fully and communicate clearly.
Comfortable clothing
Dress for comfort during floor seating and active participation in the simulators.
Notebook and pen
Useful for jotting down mission details or questions during debrief.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated between sessions during active engagement.
Light sweater or layer
The planetarium dome can be cooler than expected, so bringing a layer helps maintain comfort.
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