Space Shuttle Endeavour During California Science Fair

The California Science Center (CSC) has officially welcomed Space Shuttle Endeavour to its campus in Exposition Park, Los Angeles, after a long and exciting journey from Florida. The shuttle's story is one of remarkable achievements, marked by unforgettable moments, from its construction in Downey and assembly in Palmdale to its 25 missions to outer space, and finally, its iconic flight over California landmarks atop a 747.

As visitors enter the CSC, they are greeted with photos and videos showcasing Endeavour's development process. The gallery sets the stage for the shuttle's pavilion, where visitors can marvel at the sheer scale of this remarkable spacecraft. At 70 feet tall and 150 feet long, Endeavour appears to glow under the steel-supported structure's lights, giving onlookers a glimpse into its incredible history.

The CSC highlights Endeavour's California heritage through the exhibit 'Endeavour: The California Story,' which visitors enter before seeing the space shuttle itself. Like all of its sister ships, Endeavour was assembled in southern California at aerospace facilities in Downey and Palmdale. This exhibit showcases the shuttle's journey from construction to launch, providing a unique perspective on its remarkable story.

After more than a year of planning and an almost month-long delivery process, Endeavour has finally arrived at the CSC. The space shuttle traveled from Florida atop a NASA jumbo jet in September and then took a three-day road trip through Los Angeles streets earlier this month. Its temporary home is designed to accommodate its size until a new facility can be completed.

As part of the exhibit, visitors can see Endeavour alongside a Spacehab logistics module – often referred to as a 'float-in' closet – which it launched into space in 2007. An example of a real space shuttle main engine is also on display, offering insight into the incredible technology that powered this iconic spacecraft.

Admission to see Endeavour is free, but due to high demand, timed entry tickets are required, carrying a $2 service fee. As the third retired space shuttle to open on display since the program ended in 2011, Endeavour's presence at the CSC marks an exciting chapter in its remarkable journey.

Space shuttle endeavour during california science fair