NASA / Ames Research Center

NASA-ames-visitor-centerAmes Research Center (ARC) is a major research facility located at Moffett Federal Airfield.

Ames was originally founded to conduct wind-tunnel research on the aerodynamics of propeller-driven aircraft; however, its role has expanded to encompass spaceflight and information technology.

While most of the facility is off-limits to visitors, the Ames Visitor Center, located at the main gate,  has a fascinating selecting of exhibits, including a real moon rock and a space shuttle simulator.

Of of the coolest exhibits is the high-resolution immersive theater, which shows a revolving program of footage taken by various NASA missions


Exit at ‘Moffett Blvd / NASA Parkway’, then turn right onto Moffett Blvd. and proceed to the four way stop sign at the main gate.

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/ames/home/exploration.html