The Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls opens a new interactive exhibit, Space Explorers: Mission Infinity, this Saturday at 10 a.m. The two-year, $1.3 million project was created with MarketBeat, Dakota State University and the city. It is the largest renovation of the Kirby Science Discovery Center since 1999 and features family-friendly, hands-on activities that combine current space science with open questions to inspire curiosity in students.
Washington Pavilion Unveils 'Space Explorers: Mission Infinity' — Hands-On Exhibit Opens Saturday
The Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls opens a new interactive exhibit, Space Explorers: Mission Infinity, this Saturday at 10 a.m. The two-year, $1.3 million project was created with MarketBeat, Dakota State University and the city. It is the largest renovation of the Kirby Science Discovery Center since 1999 and features family-friendly, hands-on activities that combine current space science with open questions to inspire curiosity in students.
02:24 PM, 11/14/2025Science
Washington Pavilion launches new interactive space exhibit
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — The Washington Pavilion opens a new hands-on space experience, Space Explorers: Mission Infinity, with a grand opening on Saturday at 10 a.m. Designed for families and aspiring young scientists, the exhibit blends interactive play with real science to spark curiosity and creativity.
The two-year project was developed in partnership with MarketBeat, Dakota State University and the city of Sioux Falls, with a total investment of $1.3 million. Washington Pavilion Management Company President and CEO Darrin Smith called it "the single largest renovation in the history of the Kirby Science Discovery Center since its 1999 opening."
Madelyn Grogan, the Pavilion's director of museums and education, said the team worked for two years to create an experience that is both educational and fun: 'It’s been a long process, but also one of the most exciting projects I’ve had the chance to lead.'
What visitors can expect
- Simulated activities such as playing basketball on a Mars-like court
- Interactive stations for imagining alien life and exploring planetary environments
- Hands-on rocket launch demonstrations and other engineering-focused challenges
- Exhibits that mix established space science with current open questions to encourage inquiry
Staff emphasize the exhibit is family-friendly: 'Parents and grandparents who bring the kids are going to have fun and be challenged,' Smith said. The Pavilion hopes the installation will inspire students to explore STEM subjects and pursue future learning.
Grand opening: Saturday at 10 a.m. — check the Washington Pavilion website for admission details and hours.
For the latest information on tickets, hours and special programs related to the exhibit, visit the Washington Pavilion's official site.