When someone mentions the space program we tend to think of Neil Armstrong, space stations (like Mir) and conflict between the USA and the former Soviet Union. Few of us, especially those outside of Canada, think of Canada. The Cosmodome in Laval, Quebec is changing all that.  Oh sure, Canada has been involved in space exploration since the early 1900s, but the Cosmodome brings it all to life. Interactively.

At the Cosmodome, visitors can uncover the history of man’s interest in the heavens, the tools we have used to explore and understand it, and where the space program is headed, far beyond simple telecommunications and rocket ships.  

In the Space Science Center, visitors are treated to the fascinating history of Earth, the sun and all the planets in our cosmic neighbourhood. Explore the world at your own pace. 

The most exciting part of the Cosmodome, however, is the Space Camp program. Designed with the intention of inspiring Canada’s youth to take an interest in space exploration, the camp offers children and parents the opportunity to find out just what astronauts go through in pursuit of the great frontier. A variety of programs have been developed through which participants can test drive different astronaut training simulators (including flying the space shuttle), join space workshops, embark on their own space mission simulation the shuttle Endeavour and taste the freeze dried food astronauts take with them into space. Ever wonder what zero gravity feels like? Now you can find out! Want to know what it is like to fly the big ship? Climb on board. The training simulators were designed to operate like the real thing. Programs run anywhere from evening and half day to six full days. Obviously, the longer you stay the more there is to explore.  

Cosmodome even hosts corporate events, and has developed specific team building programs, much like the wilderness corporate retreat, based around the science of space exploration. The space “mission” is designed to reinforce the importance of teamwork and responsibility through decision-making.