The museum is housed in a repurposed 1912 PG&E powerhouse, preserving the original brick exterior.
The building features a specialized green roof system designed to reduce stormwater runoff into the nearby Sacramento River.
The UC Davis Multiverse Theater utilizes a high-resolution 4K digital projection system for space science and cultural shows.
The museum's 'Water Challenge' exhibit explains the complex Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta ecosystem.
The facility was designed to meet high energy efficiency standards as part of its educational mission regarding sustainability.
The SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity (MOSAC) is a regional science center located in a renovated historic powerhouse building along the Sacramento River. It features permanent exhibits focused on water, space, nature, and energy, with a strong emphasis on hands-on STEM interaction for families. The facility houses the UC Davis Multiverse Theater, a digital planetarium offering immersive dome shows. The 'Design Lab' provides a dedicated makerspace for engineering and creative building projects. The museum serves as an educational hub with rotating scientific exhibits and interactive displays. It maintains a partnership with SMUD for energy-focused programming. The building preserves industrial elements of the original 1912 power station architecture.
The outdoor plaza facing the river, which captures the contrast between the historic powerhouse brick and modern water views.
Check the digital schedule board in the lobby upon arrival to reserve your preferred showtimes for the planetarium.
Allow extra time to walk the adjacent riverfront park area after exploring the indoor exhibits.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes to safely navigate the interactive exhibits.
Do not wait until the end of the day to visit the planetarium, as showtimes fill up quickly and may sell out.
Generally closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas; occasionally closed for private events or school maintenance days.
Active exploration is encouraged, but running is prohibited; follow signage for hands-on exhibit safety.