California Science Center Celebrates Topping Out of Highly Anticipated New Air and Space Center

Los Angeles, CA – The California Science Center marked a significant milestone today in the construction of the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center with a ceremonial topping out celebration. The event, a tradition in major construction projects, featured the hoisting of some final steel beams into the complex diagrid of the 200,000-square-foot expansion.

“Together, we've worked to create an iconic new landmark in Los Angeles that will inspire future generations of scientists, engineers,"Photo byCourtesy Photo

The innovative diagrid framework allows for a self-supporting structure, eliminating the need for columns and providing an unobstructed view of the space shuttle Endeavour in the 20-story Samuel Oschin Shuttle Gallery.

Jeffrey Rudolph, President and CEO of the California Science Center, expressed gratitude for the dedicated team and partners, including MATT Construction and ZGF Architects, who have contributed to this ambitious project. “Together, we've worked to create an iconic new landmark in Los Angeles that will inspire future generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers,” he said.