The
New Mexico Kids! magazine wrote that Explora started "around 1983 with two individual groups who – with no knowledge of each other’s existence – had similar ideas: the first group envisioned a 'children’s
Exploratorium,' while the second had the idea of a 'science and technology Exploratorium.'" Explora incorporated in 1984, while the second group under the wing of the New Mexico Academy of Science, opened an exhibit called Explore in the
Albuquerque Museum of Art and History. New Mexico Kids! says: :In 1986, Explora and the New Mexico Academy of Sciences were joined by HealthQuest, an organization interested in health education that wanted a “health and medicine Exploratorium.” The three formed a consortium, and worked with the
City of Albuquerque to develop a
quality of life tax project that would provide a permanent facility. The tax was approved in 1987, and construction plans were drawn up by
Mahlman Studio Architecture. Explora Science Center opened in
Downtown Albuquerque’s First Plaza Galleria in 1993. The museum moved to the Sheraton Old Town, and then to
Winrock Center. In 1995, Explora merged with the Albuquerque Children’s Museum and became Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum. Explora opened its current location in December 2003. Financial support comes from several sources, including earned income, public dollars from the city and the state, and corporation and foundation grants. == Awards ==