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Innovation Circle

A group of visionary leaders deepening the impact of Space Center Houston's education programs.

Annual contributions of $1,500 or more directly support our efforts to provide access to transformative science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning experiences. As the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, Space Center Houston has the access and vision to shape the future of our region by engaging and inspiring the next generation of explorers, innovators, and problem-solvers.

As a nonprofit organization, we rely on the generosity of supporters to make this work possible.

Donors recognized by the Innovation Circle receive top-level, priority access to Space Center Houston events and experiences, enjoy intimate, exclusive event receptions with Space Center Houston leadership and Board of Directors, as well as concierge services for Executive VIP tours of Johnson Space Center and more.

How Innovation Circle makes an impact

Space Center Houston is working to address the growing need for workers with STEM skills by providing engaging exhibits, technologies and educational programs that open the doors to STEM fields for people of all ages.

The Innovation Circle specifically provides support for the extraordinary learning opportunities and education programming that Space Center Houston makes available to over 1 million visitors annually.

From entrepreneurial innovation challenges to field trips for Title 1 schools, Innovation Circle donors fuel Space Center Houston’s work to support students of all ages by providing top-tier, accessible, hands-on STEM programming not only locally, but globally.

When you are recognized by the Innovation Circle, you’re joining a visionary group of leaders dedicated to advancing our education programs and impact – which reaches over 250,000 students and educators annually.

Every gift is tax deductible in accordance with IRS regulations.

What you gain by joining Innovation Circle

When you make a cumulative annual gift of $1,500 or more, you will be invited to numerous events and experiences with special guests and presenters alongside Space Center Houston leadership and members of our Board of Directors throughout the year. Some of our noteworthy opportunities include: 

  • Personally curated Executive VIP tours through NASA Johnson Space Center and Space Center Houston
  • NEW: Behind-the-Scenes and first-look opportunities for new exhibits, artifacts, restorations, and renovations
  • Annual luncheons celebrating your donations and commitment to our STEM education initiatives
  • Invitations to exclusive cocktail reception events such as our Catalyst Conversation – designed to take a deeper dive into SCH or space related topics while meeting and getting to know like-minded supporters and Space Center Houston Board and Leadership
  • Priority reserved seating at certain Space Center Houston public events, such as NASA Crew Debriefings
  • Special recognition in our annual report, Mission Impact, and its Honor Roll of Donors

Questions about joining Innovation Circle or fulfilling one of your benefits? Please reach out to:

Millie Elliott

Manager of the Innovation Circle, Space Center Houston Phone: +1 281-283-7735 | Email: [email protected]

Levels and Opportunities for Engagement

By joining our premier donor group, you will receive benefits that provide you with a chance for personal connections with Space Center Houston, NASA Johnson Space Center and industry insiders. Your involvement deepens your engagement through an array of invitation-only events and other memorable experiences.

Innovation Circle Levels Pricing
Launch $1,500 to $4,999
Liftoff $5,000 to $9,999
Ascent $10,000 to $24,999
Flight $25,000 and up
Opportunities for Engagement Launch Liftoff Ascent Flight
Invitations to Astronaut Insights salons, intimate gatherings with Space Center Houston President & CEO and industry experts
Concierge service for your Space Center Houston experiences, personally managed by Development staff ¹
An Innovation Circle Access Card for free parking and general admission to Space Center Houston for up to eight ²
Recognition in annual Space Center Houston publications and on the Space Center Houston website
Top priority advance notice and registration for select Space Center programs, including Explorer Camps for kids, film screenings, book signings and unique talks
Priority reserved seating at select public events including, among others, Crew Debriefs
ASTC Passport (with reciprocal privileges at over 300 science centers)
Invitations to meet student participants and top industry volunteers in our premier STEM education programs
Curated VIP tours of Space Center Houston and NASA Johnson Space Center customized to your interests
Ability to request Space Center Houston's direct support of another of your favorite charity's events or fundraisers through auction packages, donated tickets, family memberships, etc.
Ability to sponsor a field trip for one classroom to Space Center Houston ³
Receive preferred rate on event space rentals at Space Center Houston
Invitation to share your support story in a video on Space Center Houston website
Invitations for you and a guest to attend community and corporate events as a guest of Space Center Houston leadership
Ability to host one private dinner or reception aboard Boeing 747 installed on Independence Plaza (space is limited) with Space Center Houston organizational leadership ³
Invitation to join unique VIP tours, exclusive launch watch opportunities and insider developments
Receive one reserved Space Center Houston parking spot for one year

¹ Available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact [email protected] or call +1 281-244-2126

² Express entry line and early entrance on select peak dates, as well as additional benefits all members receive.

³ Requires three to four weeks lead time for arrangements to be made.

About Space Center Houston

Owned and operated by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Manned Space Flight Education Foundation (Tax ID# 76-0217152), Space Center Houston is a leading science and space exploration learning center. Space Center Houston is the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center and a Smithsonian Affiliate.
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Moon 2 Mars Festival is back!

Tickets on sale now | March 13 - 16

The All-American Rejects are throwing Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival into hyperdrive. Amp up your Space City Spring Break with us!

Access to this all-ages festival is included in general admission.

Early Closure | April 29, 2025

Space Center Houston will close at 3 p.m. CT on Tuesday, April 29. Understand how this will impact your visit.

WEATHER ALERT

Closed Jan. 21 & 22, 2025

For the safety of our guests and staff, Space Center Houston is closed on Tuesday, January 21 and Wednesday, January 22 due to forecasted inclement weather.

We apologize for the inconvenience and look forward to welcoming you soon! For questions or concerns, contact our Reservations team with your order number at 281.283.4755 or via email.