SAN PEDRO Science Center – San Pedro, CA

The SAN PEDRO Science Center provides an active learning environment to educate children and adults on the area’s diverse marine biology. With a range of exhibits and seminars open to the public, the Science Center’s goal is to make learning a memorable experience.

The Science Center’s building design is inspired by the dynamic motion of the ocean’s waves, and it’s louvered glass-canopy panels can trace their form and layout back to the goose barnacles found throughout the surrounding tidepools.

The Center is designed with four key elements to minimize the use of energy concumption: power via solar panels, repurposed steel to construct the main and secondary building structures, maximum natural light throughout the day via the glass-canopy, and natural climate controlling via temperature responsive roof vents.

Utilizing the latest in solar array technology, the Science Center is able to run daily operations “off the grid”.  The array is positioned to maximize the collection of sunshine throughout the day.

Maintaining an even climate throughout the day and night is important to visitor and animals alike.  Themo-actuated roof vents open and close when the inside temperature goes above or below preset limits.

One highlight to the Science Center is the neighboring lifeguard station. Featuring the latest in thermal imaging and communications technology, visitors are kept safe while exploring the San Pedro coastline.