Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Located on the campus of California Institute of Technology and established by CIT in the 1930's, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory serves as a NASA laboratory, researching and creating technology for the exploration of the earth, the solar system, and the universe.

JPL has been a pioneer in the space exploration industry for decades and continues to push the boundaries of space exploration today. The history of the laboratory began when the "Rocket Boys" converted the science fiction perception of rockets into a reality. Later, in response to the Russian's launch of Sputnik, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory created and launched Explorer I, the first US satellite and first spacecraft to retrieve scientific data.

The laboratory offers free tours to the public with an online reservation made in advance. Tours last 2 to 2.5 hours and include a multimedia presentation. Visitors 18 years of age or older must present identification. One day each week, the laboratory is open for tours without advance reservation. Group tours are available for groups of 20 or more people and are recommended for those in the 3rd grade or above.

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is located about 45 minutes by car northeast of Los Angeles International Airport. Other nearby tourist sites include the Pacific Asia Museum, McDonald and Washington parks, and Huntington Botanical Gardens.