Space Shuttle Endeavour Removed from 747

NASA's iconic space shuttle fleet came to an end last year, marking a new era in space exploration beyond low-Earth orbit. As part of its final mission, the shuttle Endeavour has been removed from its 747 carrier jet at Los Angeles International Airport and will now embark on a 12-mile journey through city streets to its new permanent home at the California Science Center.

Endeavour, known as the 'baby shuttle,' was built in 1991 and completed its maiden voyage just a year later. During its nearly three-decade-long career, it left Earth 25 times, logging an impressive 123 million miles in space. This historic spacecraft has played a significant role in NASA's mission to explore space, replacing the Challenger shuttle after its tragic explosion in 1986.

On Friday, Endeavour took to the skies once more for a farewell tour of California, flying over some of the state's most treasured landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and the Hollywood sign. The sight of this iconic spacecraft soaring overhead brought out crowds of enthusiastic spectators, who gathered on rooftops and in public spaces to catch a glimpse of the shuttle.

As Endeavour made its final approach at Los Angeles International Airport, an American flag popped out of the 747's hatch, symbolizing the end of an era for NASA's space shuttle program. The shuttle will now take up residence at the California Science Center, where it will go on display in October, giving the public a chance to marvel at its historic significance.

For many people who have followed the space shuttle program over the years, Endeavour's retirement is a bittersweet moment. For Gina Oberholtz, her uncle had worked as a shuttle technician, making this goodbye particularly emotional. Others showed their appreciation for the shuttle by screaming with joy or chanting 'USA! USA!' as it flew overhead.

As the space shuttle Endeavour begins its new life as a museum piece, it serves as a reminder of humanity's remarkable achievements in space exploration and the significance of the work done by NASA's astronauts and engineers. Its legacy will continue to inspire future generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers, ensuring that the dream of space travel remains alive for years to come.

Space shuttle endeavour removed from 747