CALGARY, Alberta -- SpacePort, a $2 million, 6,000-square-foot
attraction that combines aviation, telecommunications and
technology, opened at Calgary Airport.
Located on the terminal's third level, SpacePort has
interpretive and interactive displays, a handful of simulator
rides, a children's play area and educational programs.
Highlights include a quarter-scale replica of the Space Shuttle
Orbiter on loan from NASA, a moon rock and a DeHavilland Beaver
bushplane on display.
"We have a world-class attraction that will be a big draw for
the community and passengers," said Myrna Dube, SpacePort project
director. "[SpacePort] reflects not only the history of aviation,
such as the bush plane, but with telecommunications and technology,
its potential."
Canadian astronaut Bob Thirsk and NASA astronaut David Scott
were on hand for Spaceport's opening.
SpacePort is part of an improvement program that has brought
additional retail operations to the terminal.
Dube said the attraction, opened after two years of planning,
was created with corporate and community support. Supporters
included Coca-Cola, TELUS, Dairy Queen, Calgary Herald, Global
Television Network and the Pattison Outdoor Group.
Calgary Airport, located 10 miles from the city's business
district, serviced 7.8 million passengers last year.