North Dakota Science Center Celebrates Artemis Missions

Gateway to Science focuses on space exploration and STEM education ahead of 2027 Artemis launch.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 9:51pm

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A highly textured, abstract painting featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric planetary circles, and precise botanical spirals in earthy tones of ochre, sage, and indigo, conceptually representing the complex forces and concepts of space exploration.A community science center in North Dakota is fueling excitement for the next chapter of lunar exploration through interactive exhibits and STEM education.Bismarck Today

The North Dakota Gateway to Science, an interactive science center in Bismarck, is ramping up its space-themed programming and exhibits to coincide with upcoming Artemis moon missions. The center plans to have a community-built Artemis Lego rocket on display by June to mark its 30th anniversary, aiming to inspire the next generation of space explorers through hands-on STEM education.

Why it matters

As NASA prepares for the next Artemis mission in 2027, regional science centers like Gateway to Science play a crucial role in generating public excitement and interest in space exploration, especially among young people. By offering interactive exhibits and educational opportunities, the center hopes to cultivate the next wave of scientists, engineers, and astronauts.

The details

The Gateway to Science is focusing its efforts on hosting kid-friendly and adult events centered around space exploration in the lead-up to the next Artemis mission. The center plans to have an Artemis Lego rocket built by community members on display by June to commemorate its 30th anniversary, providing a tangible way for visitors to engage with the technology behind the Artemis program.

  • Last week, NASA's Artemis space crew flew further around the moon than any human has ever done before.
  • The next Artemis mission is scheduled for 2027.

The players

Gateway to Science

An interactive science center in Bismarck, North Dakota, focused on promoting STEM education and public engagement with science.

Hope Burdolski

The STEM Education Coordinator at the Gateway to Science.

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What they’re saying

“It was a lot of emotion because having people come together for one common cause and see people celebrate the amazing concept of exploration, it just is very overwhelming because that allows us, as a humanity, to come together.”

— Hope Burdolski, STEM Education Coordinator

What’s next

The Gateway to Science plans to have the community-built Artemis Lego rocket on display by June 2026 to commemorate the science center's 30th anniversary.

The takeaway

By focusing on space exploration and STEM education, the Gateway to Science is playing a vital role in inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and astronauts in North Dakota and beyond. The center's efforts to engage the public, especially young people, with the excitement of the Artemis program demonstrate the important work that regional science centers can do to support national space exploration initiatives.