History

2001:

• Key community leaders formed Mast, Inc. non-profit foundation with goal of raising private sector funds
• NASA entered into Cooperative Agreement with non-profit partner, MAST, Inc. ($5M to date from NASA)
  

2002:

• NASA purchased 199 acres on I-10 outside SSC gates to provide a secure and accessible location for visitor and education programs
• Collaboration with MS Department of Marine Resources regarding 1,200 adjoining acres for environmental experiences
  

2003:

• NASA, Navy, NOAA, USGS, EPA, and other SSC scientists and engineers worked with ESI Design to develop visitor experience
  

2004:

• MAST contracted with Harrison Price Company to update feasibility study
• MAST approved architectural and exhibition designs
  

2005:

• Bond bills for INFINITY passed in both Mississippi Legislative chambers
• Funding for INFINITY was included in Governor’s Call for Special Session
• INFINITY featured as key element in Governor’s Commission’s proposed vision for the new landscape of the Coast
  

2006:

• Bills introduced in both House and Senate for INFINITY funding
• Governor Barbour signed HB1634 awarding INFINITY $6M