Officials unveiled the Vandenberg Launch Experience simulator at the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum Monday Night.
The interactive exhibit has been a project in the works for more than two years. It is designed to get children excited about space and entering the STEM field.
"We want to spark imaginations and create the next generation of rocket scientists and engineers and all of the careers that go along with Vandenberg Air force base and space science and we’re going to mars next so hopefully it’ll all start here," said Chris Slaughter, Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum Executive Director.
The experience uses parts and video from Vandenberg rocket launches to simulate a launch from the museum. Students can run the countdown, oversee the launch and work in teams to run the operations.
Staff at the museum said the unveiling is in anticipation of an incoming NASA exhibit May 2nd and 3rd.
