A New Space Adventure Awaits at the Pavilion

The Washington Pavilion is getting a major upgrade. A new exhibit called Space Explorers: Mission Infinity is set to launch on November 15. This isn't just a small addition; it's a big deal. The second floor of the Kirby Science Discovery Center has been completely transformed. It's the largest renovation since the center opened in 1999. A lot of money went into this project. Over $1. 3 million was invested. Many groups chipped in, including Dakota State University, Marketbeat, and the City of Sioux Falls. Other contributors were Cytion, Interstate Office Products, JDS Industries, MidAmerican Energy Foundation, the Sheldon F. Reese Foundation, and South Dakota Space Grant Consortium. So, what's inside this new exhibit? There are five different zones. Each one is designed to engage visitors in a unique way. You can launch rockets, create aliens, and explore Mars. The goal is to spark curiosity and inspire learning. Dakota State University President Jose-Marie Griffiths sees this as an extension of their mission. They want to inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers. CEO Darrin Smith calls it a new chapter for the Pavilion. He believes it reflects the future of education. Hands-on learning is a big part of this exhibit. When young people engage with technology, they see themselves as capable creators. This early exposure can shape a student's educational journey. Griffiths shared that one of her students restored the museum's robotic arm. The student reprogrammed it to be a dynamic learning tool. Jayden Kruse, a tech fellow, spent a lot of time working on this project. He averaged 24 hours a week over the summer. This experience helped him gain confidence and skills for his career. The Kirby Science Discovery Center sees around 140, 000 visitors a year. Many of these are school groups. The hope is that this new exhibit will attract older students and even parents. Lifelong learning begins with moments of discovery. A spark of curiosity can lead to a lifetime of innovation. The grand opening event is on November 15, from 10 a. m. to 5 p. m. It's a chance for everyone to explore this new space adventure.