The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) was created on October 1, 1958 "to provide for research into the problems of flight within and outside the Earth's atmosphere and for other purposes." The Center, originally known as the Manned Spacecraft Center, was established in 1961. A new facility was constructed on land donated by Rice University and opened in 1963. On February 19, 1973, the center was renamed in honor of the late U.S. president and Texas native, Lyndon B. Johnson. It is often popularly referred to by its central function during missions, Mission Control. From the early Gemini, Apollo, and Skylab projects to today's Space Shuttle and International Space Station Programs, the Center continues to lead NASA's efforts in human spaceflight training, research, and flight control.
As home to the U.S. astronaut corps, the center is responsible for training astronauts from both the United States and its international partners. The facility consists of a complex of 100 buildings constructed on 1,620 acres in the Clear Lake Area of Houston. Due to the space center’s location in Houston, the city's official nickname is "Space City." Space Center Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Space Center, and its tours are a great way to see just what goes on here. A NASA tram tour brings you onto the grounds of the Space Center and gives you an up-close look at history in the making. This tour takes visitors through Building 9, where astronauts train for their next mission, and to historic Mission Control, where space programs were monitored until 1992. There is also the Saturn V Complex at Rocket Park. Whether you are traveling to Houston on business or vacation, don’t miss the opportunity to explore NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Hotels in the area allow you to stay conveniently nearby to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you can enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. Reserve your room today! We look forward to hosting you soon!