H.R. MacMillan Space Centre

OUR MISSION:
To educate, inspire and evoke a sense of wonder about the Universe, our planet and space exploration.

When can you see the rings of Saturn? What makes the night sky in Vancouver vanish? How can we learn from satellites?

No trip to Vancouver would be complete without a visit to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, a non-profit community resource that brings the wonders of space to Earth, while providing a personal sense of ongoing discovery. Rain or shine, spend a day at the Space Centre — where we focus on offering both visitors and residents of Vancouver a fun learning experience. Kids, adults, the entire family - there's something for everyone.

Prepare to shout “Wow!” when you watch the live demonstrations in the GroundStation Canada Theatre - it’s all about rocket science. Have you ever seen a J-2 rocket engine up close or a replica of the International Space Station? Between shows visit the Cosmic Courtyard and explore our space exhibits and games to learn more interesting facts on space. Space is a dark place, but we’ll enlighten you with astronomy shows under our domed Planetarium Star Theatre.

For more opportunities to explore the wonders of the night sky, visit our observatory and take advantage of our half-metre Cassegrain telescope.

Through innovative programming, exhibits and activities, our goal is to inspire sustained interest in the fields of earth science, space science and astronomy from a Canadian perspective.

Located at the heart of Vanier Park south of the Burrard Bridge, the Space Centre is easily accessible, has convenient parking, and also boasts a panaoramic view of the Coast Mountains and the city of Vancouver. Look for the friendly steel Crab at the front of the building. It’s one of the most photographed sculptures in Vancouver.