NASA Now & Next

Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex®

Introduction

This bold attraction explores the future of space travel while highlighting what is happening right now in the space program. First, see the spacecraft of today and the visionary designs paving the way of human deep space travel and discover the current cutting-edge space exploration innovations from NASA and commercial partners. Then, enter the spaceport of the future, Spaceport KSC. With your commander steering the path, launch aboard one of four unique journeys through the solar system and beyond during an immersive ride.

Here is a preview of what you will see inside:

Orion EFT-1 Capsule

The Orion Exploration Flight Test-1 (EFT-1), seen on display, was launched in 2014 for Lockheed Martin's capsule's maiden voyage test mission. Along with the SLS rocket, the Orion spacecraft will soon play an essential role in returning humans to the Moon in NASA's Artemis missions. Explore Orion's features and compare it to the Apollo capsules of the past through interactive screens. (Flight Flown)

SpaceX Cargo Dragon COTS-2

This Dragon was the first commercial spacecraft to deliver and return cargo from the International Space Station in 2012. Learn about the evolution of the Dragon's design, features, and reusability. (Flight Flown)

SpaceX Falcon 9 Booster

It is hard to miss the flight-proven SpaceX booster, or first stage, suspended overhead. This booster flew twice, most notably as a side booster for the Falcon Heavy test flight in 2018. (Flight Flown)

Blue Origin New Shepard Capsule Simulator

New Shepard Flight to Space VR Simulator

An immersive virtual reality experience inside a replica of Blue Origin’s New Shepard crew capsule that uses actual data and imagery to authentically mimic the rocket's journey above the Kármán Line, the internationally-recognized boundary of space.

Sierra Space Dream Chaser^®

Dream Chaser will perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station for NASA. It is a reusable spaceplane, and with the ability to land on existing commercial runways, provides a space vehicle for NASA and private industry. The replica suspended from the ceiling as if flying through space is a full-size model.

Boeing CST-100 Starliner Mockup Capsule

This mock-up, created to test how the Boeing Crew Space Transportation (CST)-100 Starliner crew module would work during a real mission, has been used for hours of training. The CST-100 Starliner can carry four to five astronauts and cargo and is designed for a ground landing rather than water. Discover more about the Starliner using the interactive touch screens.

Boeing Spacesuit

Constructed by Adam Savage, under the guidance of Boeing and their spacesuit designer, this replica spacesuit features authentic elements of those to be worn by Starliner astronauts. Interact by examining the helmet and suit, and even “try on” the gloves.

Lockheed Martin Space Habitat

Step into this full-scale mockup of what a habitat orbiting the Moon can look like. The habitat shows the need to take advantage of all the space – both on the “floor” and the “ceiling” – to get the most functionality.

Gateway_aerojet_rocketdyne_rocket_engine

Aerojet Rocketdyne
RL-10 Engine

Are you ready to be a rocket test engineer for the Aerojet Rocketdyne? Experimenting with four different mission scenarios, try your hand at fueling and igniting the engine by mixing liquid hydrogen and oxygen and, if successful, certify the engine for flight.

Robotic Space Explorers Interactive Wall

Interact with 40 notable space missions of satellites, telescopes, probes, and rovers. Dive deeper into the missions or step beyond the kiosks and allow your illuminated shadow to discover spacecraft as they travel through the planets. Search for the "Easter eggs" on the wall by activating the targets.

James Webb Space Telescope Holotube

Explore the James Webb Space Telescope, which launched December 2021, using the kiosk and 3D models. See its path from Earth to its orbit point, a 3D model of it fully deployed. and how its imagery varies from those taken by Hubble.

Attraction Details

Included With Admission
Wheelchair Accessible
Elevator Available
Space Bowl Bistro More Info
Quiet Room Available
Allow 45 Minutes without Spaceport KSC
Map