Space Shuttle Endeavour LA: The Final Chapter

In a momentous occasion for space enthusiasts and historians alike, NASA's last-built-for-flight space shuttle external tank, ET-94, was lifted into place at the California Science Center's new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center. This remarkable feat marks a significant milestone in the construction of the world's only fully-authentic, upright space shuttle display.

The operation began on a chilly winter morning, with two massive cranes carefully lifting the 65,000-pound tank from its horizontal position around 3:00 a.m. The team had been preparing for this moment for months, taking precautions to ensure the safety of the crew and the delicate equipment involved.

As the cranes slowly hoisted the tank into the air, the winds began to pick up, prompting concerns about the stability of the structure. To mitigate these risks, the team rescheduled the lift to take place overnight, between Thursday and Friday, when the winds were expected to be at their calmest.

The 'Go for Stack' effort was a carefully choreographed dance of precision engineering and teamwork, with every move meticulously planned to ensure the success of this unprecedented operation. The external tank was finally placed in front of two solid rocket boosters, marking the penultimate step in the assembly process.

Speaking on behalf of the California Science Center, President Jeffrey Rudolph expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and expertise of the team involved, stating that 'With the mating of ET-94 to the Solid Rocket Boosters, we have successfully completed a giant undertaking and the largest part of the space shuttle stack.'

The resulting 20-story-tall display will be the centerpiece of the California Science Center's Samuel Oschin Air and Space Museum when it opens in the next few years. This incredible achievement is a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring legacy of NASA's space shuttle program.

As ET-94 takes its final resting place, it serves as a poignant reminder of the remarkable achievements of the space shuttle Endeavour, which has inspired generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers. The California Science Center's new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center will provide a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the awe-inspiring majesty of this iconic spacecraft up close.

In conclusion, the placement of ET-94 at the California Science Center marks the culmination of a remarkable journey, one that will continue to inspire and educate future generations about the wonders of space exploration.

Space shuttle endeavour la