The City of Angels has eagerly embraced the arrival of two massive twin rockets that will soon be showcased in a new space shuttle exhibit. Weighing a whopping 104,000 pounds each, these colossal solid rocket motors have been transported to the California Science Center in South Los Angeles, where they will take center stage alongside the space shuttle Endeavour.
These rocket motors, which make up most of the length of the white solid rocket boosters, played a crucial role in lifting the space shuttle during its takeoff, accounting for more than 80% of the lift. Now, they will serve as a key component of the permanent exhibition dedicated to the Endeavour, the very last space shuttle ever constructed.
In a daring and carefully orchestrated operation, the rockets embarked on a two-day journey, traversing seven Southern California freeways to reach their final destination at the museum. Enthusiastic spectators, including former astronaut Douglas G. Hurley, stood in awe as the rockets made their grand entrance.
The solid rocket boosters, generously donated by Northrop Grumman, have a storied history, having been used and reused in numerous space shuttle launches. Come early November, a crane will hoist the rockets into place atop the base of the boosters, further heightening the anticipation surrounding this remarkable exhibit.
Visitors to the California Science Center will soon be treated to an awe-inspiring display that features not only the Endeavour orbiter, but also the colossal solid rocket boosters and the giant orange external tank. The installation process will unfold over the next few months, with the museum being constructed around the fully assembled shuttle.
Once the museum construction has been completed, the public will be granted access to this extraordinary exhibit. As the countdown begins, space enthusiasts and curious individuals alike eagerly anticipate the grand opening of the space shuttle display next year. The arrival of these twin rockets marks yet another milestone in Los Angeles’ quest to become a hub for space exploration and education. Stay tuned for more updates on this fascinating exhibit coming soon to the California Science Center.
“Social media scholar. Reader. Zombieaholic. Hardcore music maven. Web fanatic. Coffee practitioner. Explorer.”