1401 Leo Street
Dayton, OH 45404
The Challenger Learning Center is a hands-on experience in which students learn to work collaboratively, think critically and develop math and science skills that are critical to their future success. Students from Dayton Public Schools, outlying districts and the tri-state learn through simulated space exploration using nationally recognized curricula to help them develop long-term interest in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and math.
Participants may blast off on a Mission to Mars or become a micronaut onboard a space station, conducting experiments as they "travel" into space. The Challenger Learning Center opened its doors to students in September 1990. The learning center is one of a network of centers across the United States and Canada, established through the Challenger Center for Space Science Education, headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia. It is named for the Challenger space shuttle crew who lost their lives during a mission on January 28, 1986.
Challenger Learning Center Mission:
To use space exploration as a theme to create positive learning experiences that raise students' expectations of success; foster in students a long-term interest in science, technology, engineering and math; motivate students to pursue studies in these areas.