McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is a space and aviation museum in Concord where visitors can explore exhibits about spaceflight and exploration. Inside, you find interactive displays, a digital planetarium, and an observatory set up for looking at the night sky.

The facility began in 1990 as a planetarium and later expanded to include a science museum focused on space exploration. This growth reflects how the institution developed over time to serve more visitors and teach about different aspects of spaceflight.

The facility honors Christa McAuliffe and Alan Shepard, two important figures in American spaceflight whose legacies shape how visitors experience the space program. Walking through, you encounter their stories woven into displays that show why they matter to people locally and beyond.

The museum is easily accessible and welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities at its main entrances. Plan to spend a few hours here so you can move through the exhibits and catch a planetarium show without feeling rushed.

The museum displays an actual jet aircraft from the 1950s and models of the capsules that carried people into space. These objects help visitors understand the real size and appearance of spaceflight machines.

Location: New Hampshire

Inception: 1990

Address: 2 Institute Drive, Concord, New Hampshire 03301

Website: http://starhop.com

GPS coordinates: 43.22460,-71.53320

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:43