A Message from our Director
People have always been fascinated by the universe that stretches out
above them. The innate sense of wonderment we feel under a starry night
sky scarcely can be matched. When we gaze at the heavens, we naturally
contemplate the deepest mysteries of humanity. “How did we get here?”
“How far are the stars?” “Are we alone?” “Can we explore the universe?”
Human curiosity always has been the driving force behind scientific
investigation, exploration and discovery. Columbus State University’s
Coca-Cola Space Science Center is a place where curiosity inspires
questions, questions find answers, and answers give birth to new and
deeper questions.
For more than fourteen years, the Coca-Cola Space Science Center has
been igniting the fires of curiosity and bringing the universe home to
Columbus, GA. Through our many programs and outreach activities, we have
provided our community with unique resources to learn about astronomy,
space science, and space exploration.
It has been four centuries since Galileo first used the telescope to
study objects in the night sky. Galileo’s observations changed the way
humanity understood the universe. In 2009, the Coca-Cola Space Science
Center and science enthusiasts around the world celebrated the
“International Year of Astronomy” in honor of Galileo’s achievements.
That year also marked the 40th anniversary of the day Neil Armstrong and
“Buzz” Aldrin became the first human beings to set foot on another
world, our Moon. Along with their partner Michael Collins, these brave
astronauts sailed more than half a million miles aboard Apollo 11
traveling to the Moon, back home safely, and into the pages of history.
As we look back to these monumental achievements, we also look forward
to the future of space exploration. We know that inspiring future
scientists, engineers, astronauts and educators is vital to the
continued success of our journey into the stars. At the Coca-Cola Space
Science Center, we want to carry on the mission that began with a
telescope and led to footprints on the Moon.
You can join in on the mission. Support the future of science education.
Help inspire the next generation of space explorers. Become a member of
CSU’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center.
Thank You!
Best Regards,
Shawn T. Cruzen, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Coca-Cola Space Science Center
Columbus State University