Delaware North Companies Parks and Resorts, operators of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, US, has contracted PGAV Destinations to design a 10-year destination plan for the site.

The complex has asked NASA that it be chosen to display one of the three remaining space shuttle orbiters, with the main element of the masterplan being a US$100m (£64.1m) exhibit displaying a flown vehicle. Initial design concepts for the 64,000sq ft (5,946sq m) display include viewing the space shuttle in flight, showing how the spacecraft worked in space and allowing up-close examination by visitors.

Complementing the orbiter display will be interactive features reflecting major accomplishments of the space shuttle programme, including the Hubble space telescope and construction of the international space station. Bill Moore, chief operating officer of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex said: "We have begun designing a dynamic, interactive exhibit to tell the space shuttle story from our own unique perspective.

"Kennedy Space Center is home to the space shuttle; all 132 missions have launched from here." The master plan is funded through admission fees and food and retail sales and will showcase up to ten themed areas in addition to providing new and improved visitor facilities.