NASA Administrator General Charles Bolden announced, April 12, that the California Science Center is one of four institutions chosen to receive a Space Shuttle Orbiter for permanent display.
On October 11, 2011, NASA officially transferred title of Space Shuttle Endeavour to the California Science Center Foundation, making it the first institution to take ownership of a shuttle. The transfer is the first step toward the Science Center receiving Endeavour, which is scheduled for delivery in the latter part of 2012.
What day is the shuttle coming to the Science Center?
After Endeavour's final mission, it will take some time for NASA to decommission it for display and transport it to Los Angeles. We are working with NASA on logistics and a timeline and will share schedule information as it is finalized. The current delivery time is the latter part of 2012.
Will I have to pay to see the shuttle?
Currently the Science Center does not charge general admission, and there is no plan at this time to charge to view Endeavour.
Will I be able to sit inside the shuttle?
The Shuttle is a priceless gift to the people of California and Los Angeles, and the California Science Center plans to maintain the highest standards of conservation to protect Endeavour. To preserve the vehicle for future generations it is not possible to access or make physical contact with the vehicle. However, the Science Center is exploring display configurations that will permit guests to get as close to Endeavour as possible and to examine the Orbiter from different perspectives and elevations.
Why was the Science Center picked to keep the shuttle?
We believe that we best met NASA’s criteria. We are dedicated to science learning and education and have an international reputation for high quality exhibits. Studies show that the Science Center is very effective at fulfilling its mission. California has a strong historic connection to the shuttles, as all of the orbiters were built in southern California.
Will there be an event with the astronauts so we can ask questions about their adventures on the shuttle?
EndeavourLA Launch was held October 11, 2011 to mark the ceremonial title-signing that transferred ownership of the shuttle from NASA to the California Science Center Foundation. Former astronaut and STS-134 Commander Mark Kelly and crew members Drew Feustel, Michael Fincke, and Greg Johnson participated as witnesses to the historic title transfer. Science Center members were invited to attend.
As Endeavour travels to its destination in Exposition Park, there will be opportunities to see the shuttle and join in the celebration. We will post information on our website and email it to our members and email list.
Will the shuttle be displayed in the main building prior to the construction of the new building?
No. Plans for how and when to display Endeavour are currently being created. We will know more in the coming months.
Will any state money be used for the construction of the new building?
We do not plan to ask the state for funds to support the new building.
How can I support bringing Endeavour Home?
You can sponsor a shuttle tile, or make a donation to the EndeavourLA campaign, to support our exciting efforts to bring Endeavour to the California Science Center, create a new Air and Space Center and sustain ongoing educational programs and operations of the California Science Center Foundation.
Responses from Elected Officials
Here is a selection of congratulatory letters and news releases from elected officials, regarding Endeavour coming to the California Science Center:
