Our Purpose & Vision
ASTC’s purpose is to champion and support science and technology centers and museums and the entire science engagement field toward a vision of increasing understanding of and engagement with science and technology among all people.
Search our member directory of science center or museum that participate in the ASTC Passport Program. Please check each institution’s website to find out if you need to reserve in advance.
Latest News
New Initiative to Examine How Museums Engage the Communities They Serve
Museums serve as anchors in their communities. Places to learn and play, to understand the past and imagine the future. But fulfilling that role means
Science News and the Association of Science and Technology Centers Launch Partnership to Bring Science Journalism to More Learners
Key Takeaways Science News and the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) are launching a new partnership to connect ASTC member organizations with resources
ASTC Announces Four Recipients of the 2026 Roy L. Shafer Leading Edge Awards
Washington, DC — The Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) announced today the recipients of the 2026 Roy L. Shafer Leading Edge Awards. This
Read About Our Members
Learn about some of the people behind ASTC’s 600+ members around the world which, together, engage more than 110 million people annually in science and technology.
Science engagement involves hands-on encounters with real science, whether demonstrations, exhibits, lectures, workshops or even debates on current issues.
Science centers and museums connect people with science, offer first-hand opportunities to engage in scientific activity, and inspire curiosity.
Topics in science engagement range from Federal policy and budget issues to STEM in the public discourse.
Current Features
Community Science is more important than ever. ASTC is connecting, supporting, and building capacity for our members’ work to address community priorities through science engagement.
The Roy L. Shafer Leading Edge Awards are presented to ASTC members and their teams in recognition of extraordinary accomplishments that enhance their organizations and advance our entire field.
Dimensions, ASTC’s online publication, highlights community voices and topics relevant to science centers and museums and other organizations committed to public engagement in science and technology.