Background

Summary provided by Dia Browser Chat
The “Unofficial Galaxies” exhibit at COSI in Columbus, Ohio (2025) is a massive Star Wars-themed experience featuring iconic props, costumes, life-size starships, and one of the world’s largest private fan collections.

“Unofficial Galaxies” at COSI (May 10–Sept. 1, 2025) is an immersive, Star Wars-inspired exhibition that brings together more than 150 artifacts from one of the largest private collections of Star Wars memorabilia. The 10,000-square-foot exhibit features:

• Life-size recreations of legendary starships like the X-Wing Starfighter, Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter, and the speeder bike from “Return of the Jedi” (which visitors can actually sit on and interact with).
• Authentic movie props and costumes, including Anakin Skywalker’s workshop desk and chair, a Han Solo in carbonite prop, and costumes for Darth Vader, Boba Fett, and Stormtroopers.
• Dozens of vintage toys and rare collectibles dating back to 1977.
• Screen-used movie scripts and custom-made items from local artists and COSI staff, highlighting the cultural impact of Star Wars.
• Behind-the-scenes insights and expertly crafted scenes for fans to experience first-hand.

The exhibit is not officially affiliated with Disney or Lucasfilm, but is a privately owned collection toured by World Touring Exhibitions. COSI has also added its own creative touches, making the experience unique to Columbus.

Beyond the museum, the city of Columbus is celebrating with themed food, drinks, and events at local businesses, including special cocktails, custom beers, and Star Wars-themed hotel packages. The exhibit is described as a must-see for fans of all ages, offering both nostalgia and new discoveries for lifelong enthusiasts and newcomers alike. ​⁠

Unofficial Galaxies runs from May 10 through September 1, 2025.
Note that there is an additional fee to see this exhibit and is not included in the normal entry fee or membership.

Here’s a hyperlink to the address for COSI in Columbus, Ohio:
333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

Impression

I grew up with Star Wars. I saw A New Hope and Empire Strikes Back on TV, and the first movie I saw in the theater was Return of the Jedi.

Every Easter for many years, my local town’s TV stations would run a Star Wars marathon. At the time, we only had a small black and white TV with rabbit ear antenna in our kitchen. My mom would be out in the kitchen and together we would watch the movies together.

More Star Wars universe movies and TV have come since the original 3 movies released.

I’m still a big fan of the universe and any time there is a Star Wars exhibit, I am excited to go and see.

COSI has done en excellent job hosting this display. It is easy to get through with a nice flow. The lighting is excellent and the fan created displays are extraordinary! I’d like to think that my pictures do the exhibit justice, but they fall a little short! This is one of those things that needs to be seen in person to be truly appreciated.

The biggest awe moment is when you realize that most of the displays are life size! So the scale is there. Much praise to the creators of the costumes, ships, lightsabers, blasters, and all of it.

Enjoy the images!