Space shuttle Endeavour’s final journey was a 12-mile ride from LAX, through Inglewood, to the California Science Center in Exposition Park.
Imagine waking up and there is a Space shuttle outside your house.
Looks like tiny ants carrying a giant insect back to the nest.
The Space Shuttle Endeavour’s last mission was an extraordinary one, although it didn’t involve a trip to space. Instead, it was a remarkable 12-mile ground journey through the streets of Los Angeles, captivating aviation professionals and enthusiasts alike.
In 2012, the space shuttle Endeavour, which had completed 25 missions, made its final journey from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to the California Science Center in Exposition Park. This historic and carefully orchestrated move aimed to retire the iconic spacecraft in a fitting and public manner.
Endeavour’s final journey started at a United Airlines hangar near LAX. It was mounted atop a specialized transport vehicle, essentially a massive wheeled platform equipped with multiple sets of wheels for even weight distribution. The transport vehicle was carefully maneuvered beneath the shuttle, and Endeavour was then securely bolted onto it.
The slow and deliberate move began as the shuttle inched its way through the streets of Los Angeles. Enthusiastic crowds lined the route, eager to catch a glimpse of the space shuttle in its unconventional mode of transportation. Aviation professionals and space enthusiasts marveled at the technical precision and logistical complexity of the operation.
The journey through Inglewood was particularly challenging, with tight clearances between buildings and obstacles. Trees were trimmed, power lines temporarily removed, and street signs adjusted to accommodate the shuttle’s wingspan. It was a testament to the incredible teamwork and planning that ensured the shuttle could safely navigate the urban landscape.
Endeavour’s final stop was the California Science Center in Exposition Park, where it was met with great fanfare. The shuttle was carefully lifted off the transport vehicle and placed on permanent display, allowing aviation professionals and enthusiasts, as well as the general public, to admire the remarkable spacecraft up close.
The Space Shuttle Endeavour’s final journey was a captivating event, showcasing the marvels of aviation technology and human ingenuity. It served as a poignant reminder of the shuttle program’s legacy and its enduring impact on space exploration.
