25 Years on Skyline Boulevard: Chabot Space & Science Center’s Ongoing Journey
25 Years on Skyline Boulevard: Chabot Space & Science Center’s Ongoing Journey
On August 19, 2025, Chabot Space & Science Center reached a milestone worth celebrating—25 years on Oakland’s Skyline Boulevard. Nestled among the majestic redwoods of Redwood Regional Park, our nonprofit Center has grown into a hub for hands-on learning, community connection, and cosmic inspiration.
A Legacy That Spans 142 Years
Chabot’s story began long before the move to Skyline. Founded in 1883 as Oakland’s astronomical observatory, Chabot has inspired curiosity about the Universe for more than 140 years. Relocating to our 13-acre campus in 2000 allowed us to expand that mission and bring science and space learning to even more people.
From the moment the doors opened, visitors encountered not just exhibits and classrooms but living history. Our two historic telescopes—Leah (1883) and Rachel (1916)—were joined in 2003 by Nellie, a 36-inch reflecting telescope that made Chabot home to the largest public observatory complex in the Western United States. These instruments have served countless amateur astronomers, supported Near Earth Object research, and even aided NASA during the Apollo 13 mission.
Growth, Innovation, and Community Impact
The past quarter century has brought incredible growth. In 2005, new classrooms and teacher preparation spaces strengthened our role as an educational partner. In 2008, we celebrated Chabot’s 125th anniversary with a year of public programs. In 2018, thanks to Measure WW, we expanded with a 3,200-square-foot outdoor Observation Deck, giving visitors an even more spectacular view of the night sky.
Through every stage of growth, our mission has remained the same: making science and space accessible to all. Today, Chabot offers planetarium shows, workshops, lectures, tinkering spaces, and community events. Our education team works closely with Oakland and Contra Costa schools, fostering inquiry-based learning, collaboration, and the critical skills students need for the future. Since Chabot’s inception, we have offered free telescope viewings to the public to remain an accessible place for space.
A New Era with NASA Ames
A landmark partnership in 2021 brought the NASA Ames Visitor Center to Chabot. With hands-on activities, mission artifacts, and exhibits highlighting cutting-edge research, this collaboration opened the door to even deeper engagement. Visitors can embark on hands-on challenges, explore NASA Ames story, and connect with NASA scientists. This collaboration also laid the groundwork for the Oakland Space Academy, a workforce development pathway for local youth.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the past 25 years on Skyline Boulevard, we’re also focused on what comes next.
“Times of transition can be powerful and catalytic moments,” shares Adam Tobin, Chabot’s Executive Director and CEO. “When I consider these milestones, reflecting on all that we have accomplished and the impact that we have had, I firmly believe that Chabot’s best days are still to come.”
Throughout the rest of 2025 and into the years ahead, Chabot will host programs, events, and activities designed to give back to the community that has supported us for generations.
Share Your Stories
We want to hear from you! Email us at snelson@chabotspace.org with your favorite Chabot story and or memory. If you have photos to share, we want to see those too! You can tag us on socials (@chabotspace) and use the hashtag #Chabot25 so we can see it! You are a part of Chabot’s legacy and future and we want to learn more about your history with our universe.
The View from Skyline
From our 19th-century beginnings to our 21st-century innovations, one thing has remained constant: Chabot’s dedication to inspiring learners of all ages about the wonders of our planet and the Universe.
As we begin the next chapter, the view from Skyline has never looked brighter. We invite you to join us as we celebrate 25 years here and all that’s to come.
