RATHDRUM - The STAR Discovery Bus is expected to be rolling later this year.

The mobile science center will complement the 20,000-square foot youth Science Technology and Research (STAR) center expected to be constructed north of Rathdrum next year.

Both projects are funded by the nonprofit North Idaho Discovery Association founded by Paul and Lorna Finman, owners of LCF Enterprises, which designs and manufactures amplifiers for commercial and military applications in Post Falls.

Taryn Hecker, NIDA spokeswoman, said the mobile center will be the size of a 45-foot chartered bus. She said a bus is expected to be purchased soon and the plan is to have colorful graphics and logos of NIDA sponsors on the outside.

"We hope that it will be up and running by summer," she said. "There will be space inside for mobile exhibits. It will also transport up to 15 kids to robotics competitions in the area."

The inside will have a gallery, desks/workbenches for students, flat-screen TVs for presentations and a bathroom.

The bus will bring learning opportunities to public, private and home school students throughout the region. The bus will also be used for county fairs and community events.

"It could also be used to bring a field trip to a school," Hecker said.

Since 2007, the Discovery Association has contributed more than $500,000 in funding for more than 50 robotics teams - comprised of more than 3,000 students - statewide.

"The STAR Discovery Bus will allow us to reach even more students and allow them to explore various pathways in science, math and technology," Lorna Finman said.

The bus will allow students and members of the community to experience what is in store at the STAR center. It will feature interactive exhibits, science laboratories and opportunities for students to explore robotics, molecular biology, alternative energy and agricultural technology.

The Finmans are seeking a conditional-use permit to build the center, which has drawn neighbor opposition.