A peek at NASA's retired space shuttle in a whole new way

After 12 years of silent repose in a museum, NASA’s last operational space shuttle, Endeavour, is preparing for its most dramatic transformation yet. No longer content to lie flat and gather dust, the iconic spacecraft will soon stand tall in launch position, ready to inspire a new generation of dreamers.

The California Science Center is constructing a 200,000-square-foot expansion, set to open in late 2026, that will redefine how visitors engage with space history. This isn’t just another museum exhibit—it’s an immersive journey into the realities of human spaceflight.

A Shuttle Poised for Flight

Endeavour will be displayed in launch configuration, complete with its original solid rocket boosters and external fuel tank. Visitors won’t just observe from afar—they’ll stand where astronauts once did, boarding the shuttle via a 140-foot gantry elevator that mirrors the pre-launch experience.

The effect is intentional: to evoke the awe and anticipation of those final moments before a mission. While no one will feel the thunderous roar of liftoff, this exhibit comes as close as possible without leaving Earth.

Artifacts That Tell a Story

The exhibit will feature 100 rare artifacts, each with its own place in aerospace history. These aren’t static displays—they’re narrative pieces, woven into the larger tapestry of NASA’s shuttle era.

From mission patches to flight-worn tools, the collection offers a glimpse into the technology and human stories that defined the program. Some items have never been publicly displayed before, making this a once-in-a-lifetime experience for space enthusiasts.

From Horizontal to Vertical: A New Era of Display

Since 2012, visitors have seen Endeavour lying flat, a relic of its retired years. But this upgrade changes everything. The shuttle will now be seen as it was meant to be seen—poised for flight, its full power and purpose on full display.

For those who remember the shuttle era, this is a nostalgic homecoming. For younger generations, it’s an opportunity to connect with history in a way that textbooks never could. It’s not just about looking back—it’s about inspiring the next wave of explorers to reach for the stars.

The countdown has begun. Endeavour’s final mission is about to begin.