Less than an our from downtown Houston, the world's petroleum capital, the Offshore Energy Center (OEC) operates its state-of-the-art facility. Visitors step on board, tour the completely refurbished jackup, absorb the day-to-day excitement of offshore drilling and production, marine transportation, environmental protection, construction, pipelining--all experienced through three decks of videos, equipment exhibits and interactive displays. It's a museum, educational attraction and working drilling rig all rolled into one.

The Offshore Energy Center is dedicated to expand the awareness of the vast energy resources beneath the world's oceans, and to chronicle the unique heritage and technological accomplishments of the industry that discovers, produces, and delivers these resources in a safe and environmentally responsible way. The objectives of this mission statement are being met through a three-fold plan developed by the Center. First, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum was established in Galveston, Texas. Second, the Offshore Pioneers Hall of Fame was established to recognize and record the individual and technological achievements of the offshore energy industry. Third, an Educational Program has been developed for students, teachers and the general public.