The Endeavor moves and the new Science Center building is topped out and becomes a new landmark in Los Angeles

In January of this year, the Endeavour Space Shuttle, which has been a prominent exhibit at the California Science Center for many years, was carefully moved to its new home—the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center. This historic spacecraft had captivated the public in Los Angeles for over a decade, but it has since vanished from the public eye. As a significant milestone in American space exploration, many are left wondering: where is this giant now?

The Endeavour Space Shuttle, known as the world’s first reusable spacecraft, completed 25 missions over its 19-year career. In the fall of 2012, after retiring, it was transported by a Boeing 747 from Edwards Air Force Base. It made a stunning flight over the Golden Gate Bridge and Hollywood before landing at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Following its arrival, it was towed by a large trailer for two days through highways and city streets, eventually arriving at the California Science Center.

In January, the Endeavour was lifted into the new Samuel Oschin facility, a key part of the Science Center’s Phase Three expansion plan, which will double the exhibit space. When completed, this center will be the only place outside of NASA where visitors can view a complete shuttle system, including the Endeavour, solid rocket boosters, and the external fuel tank. Guests will have the opportunity to observe this impressive spacecraft from multiple angles and heights, setting a record for the tallest upright display of a spacecraft in the world.

On October 10th, the California Science Center celebrated the topping-off ceremony for the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center. The final steel beam was hoisted into place, completing the building’s intricate braced structure, which eliminates the need for traditional columns and allows for stunning unobstructed views throughout the 20-story exhibit space. The new center is expected to be finished by mid-2025, although the exact opening date has yet to be announced. Once open, it will be free to the public.

Jeffrey Rudolph, the president and CEO of the California Science Center, expressed during the ceremony, “We are working together to create an iconic new landmark for Los Angeles that will inspire future scientists, engineers, and explorers.”

Before the ceremony, Jeffrey Rudolph, along with major donor Lynda Oschin and other trustees, staff, and project partners, signed the final steel beam, which was then raised into place by a crane.