Space Center Houston Opens New Sensory Room
At Space Center Houston, the mission to explore is universal. Whether it is a student dreaming of Mars or a family discovering the history of the Apollo missions, we believe every guest should have the opportunity to experience the wonders of space exploration in a way that feels safe, welcoming, and inclusive.
On April 17, we took a major step forward in that mission with the official ribbon-cutting of our brand-new sensory room. This dedicated space is designed to provide a calm and quieter environment for guests with sensory sensitivities and the neurodivergent community
Space Designed with Care
The new sensory room addresses a vital need for our visitors. By providing a retreat from the high-energy environment of the center, we ensure families can stay longer and explore more comfortably. From specialized lighting and an adult-sized changing table to tactile elements, every detail was chosen to foster a sense of belonging and calm.
This project was a true collaborative effort. Our Accessibility & Inclusion Specialist, Rachel Schwartzman, worked closely with our partners to ensure the room meets the highest standards of inclusive design. This vision was made possible through the generous support of our primary benefactor, Anita Padilla-Fitzgerald, CEO of MegaStar Financial, whose commitment to accessibility has been instrumental in bringing this project to life.
Leading the Way in Accessibility
Space Center Houston is a proud Certified Autism Center, a designation awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
This certification means our staff is trained to better understand and support the needs of autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors. The addition of the sensory room is a physical extension of that promise—a commitment to removing barriers to inspiration.
Plan Your Visit
We invite you to experience this new space during your next mission with us. Located conveniently for easy access, the sensory room is now open to all guests who may need a quiet moment during their visit.
Space exploration has always been about pushing boundaries. Today, we are proud to be pushing the boundaries of inclusion right here on Earth.
Learn more about our accessibility programs and plan your trip at spacecenter.org/accessibility.
