Discovery Museum

Discovery Museum, Inc is an independent 501 ( c ) operated by a Board of Trustees. It is not affiliated with any government entity. The Discovery Museum and Planetarium's mission is to educate, excite, and engage visitors in the exploration of science, technology, and ideas through interactive experiences that promote new insights. The Museum seeks to enhance public understanding of the science and technology by providing instructive experiences encouraging participant interaction with hands-on physical science exhibits, Planetarium programs, the Challenger Learning Center and various other educational programs. The Museum provides a broad range of educational programs in science and technology, as well as in the area where the two disciplines interact. We draw individuals and school children from across the Tri-State area. Last year over 68, 000 young people enjoyed our many interactive exhibits and educational programs. The Museum is accredited by the American Association of Museums ( AAM ) and is a member of the Association of Science and Technology Centers ( ASTC ). The Museum was founded in 1958 and opened to the public in 1962 as the only non-historical multi-disciplinary Museum in the Greater Bridgeport area. Early exhibits ranged from the natural and physical sciences too decorative and fine arts. During the 1970's and 1980's, local manufacturing businesses were, to a large extent, replaced by high technology industries. Faced with the increased concern about science literacy, educators expressed the need for assistance in teaching the physical sciences. In response to community needs, the Board of Trustees redefined the mission of the Museum to focus on two distinct areas: Science and Technology. A master plan was developed which included the renovation of the facility, installation of 55 interactive science exhibits, and improved gallery space. As a result of the changes enacted beginning in 1985, attendance has risen from 23, 000 on-site visitors to over 100, 000 on and off-site visitors. In 1991 with the help of area corporations and the State of Connecticut, the Challenger Learning Center was installed as the only center of its kind within New England and the 6th nationwide.