McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center
About
The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is dedicated to two New Hampshire space pioneers: Christa McAuliffe, the teacher-astronaut lost in the Challenger disaster, and Alan Shepard, the first American in space. The 45,000-square-foot facility holds interactive exhibits on astronomy, aviation, and earth and space science, anchored by one of only three 10K projection digital planetariums in North America. An observatory enables live stargazing, and a 1956 Crusader jet and an outdoor Science Playground extend the learning environment. The center runs STEM summer camps and school outreach programs throughout the year.
🏠 Homeschool Programs
Dedicated homeschool programs available — see starhop.com/homeschool for current offerings. Check website for current schedule.
Subject Areas
Best For
Hours of Operation
Closed Monday and Tuesday. Planetarium shows require separate ticket — check website for show schedule.
Hours change seasonally — verify before visiting.
Admission
Paid admissionGeneral admission required; planetarium shows require an additional ticket. Member and youth discounts available.
✓ Membership available
ASTC Travel Passport Program
Members of the Association of Science and Technology Centers' Travel Passport Program offer free or discounted admission to members of other participating institutions. Over 300 science centers worldwide participate.
Learn more →7 other places in our directory accept this membership:
