Space shuttle Endeavour weighed roughly 170,000 pounds, yet its final 12-mile journey through Los Angeles took 68 hours at no more than 2 mph—crews repeatedly stopped to trim trees and squeeze its 78-

Key Points:

• In October 2012, the retired space shuttle Endeavour was transported over 12 miles from Los Angeles International Airport to the California Science Center at a maximum speed of about 2 mph, with the journey taking nearly 68 hours due to numerous stops for clearance and safety checks.
• The shuttle's large dimensions, including a 78-foot wingspan and 122-foot length, posed significant challenges navigating city streets, requiring removal of around 220 traffic signals and more than 400 trees, as well as adjustments to utility lines and infrastructure.
• Endeavour was carried on a specialized Over Land Transporter that allowed precise steering and positioning, essential for maneuvering the orbiter through tight urban spaces with only inches of clearance at times.
• The move was part of a carefully planned and executed operation involving about 1,000 police officers, multiple specialists, and extensive route analysis to ensure the shuttle arrived undamaged without harming the city or public safety.
• This land transport was the final stage of Endeavour's transfer, following its cross-country ferry flight atop a modified Boeing 747, and preceded its display at the museum where it was initially exhibited horizontally with plans for a future vertical launch-stack presentation.