NASA is honoring its legendary Space Shuttle Endeavour with a final, poignant aerial tour as it made its way to its new home at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Photographers from the space agency have shared iconic images from Endeavour’s last flight on September 21, 2012, an event witnessed by millions. The new exhibition will feature Endeavour displayed in a vertical launch position, poised to inspire future generations of space explorers.
An Aerial Ballet: The Art of Documentation
This final transit presented a significant challenge and a career highlight for the team of photographers and videographers at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center. Lori Losi, a lead videographer, recalled, “Chasing Endeavour on its final transport over Southern California was, without a doubt, one of the highlights of my 37-year career at NASA.” She emphasized the use of two “escort” aircraft to ensure comprehensive photo and video coverage. “It was a beautiful dance of changing altitudes and positions around landmarks to get the best possible documentation of the shuttle,” she added.
An Epic Goodbye to California
Endeavour’s carefully orchestrated route took it over some of California’s most recognizable landmarks. From iconic theme parks to renowned sports stadiums, the shuttle passed over:
- Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks
- The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- Dodger Stadium
- The Getty Center
- NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley
- The Golden Gate Bridge
- NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena
- The Santa Monica Pier
Photographer Jim Ross described the “greatest joy of this project was seeing the excitement of people on the ground as we flew over the different landmarks.” Carla Thomas, another photographer, expressed pride in seeing crowds gathered near the California State Capitol in Sacramento. She also detailed the complexities of capturing shots near the famous Hollywood sign, navigating the terrain and power lines.
Throughout its 25 missions, the Space Shuttle Endeavour played a crucial role in assembling the International Space Station, delivering its initial components to orbit. Now, it stands ready to inspire new generations in its permanent home.
