The California Science Center is preparing to install a significant piece of the Space Shuttle Endeavour at its future Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center. The first step in this process, known as Go for Stack, began on Monday with the movement of two solid rocket motors from their current location to the construction site.

Each motor measures 116 feet in length and weighs a whopping 104,000 pounds. These massive pieces will be hoisted by crane next week and attached to the aft skirts of the shuttle. This marks a significant milestone in the assembly process, with the eventual goal being a full-stack configuration of the Space Shuttle Endeavour.

The length of the space shuttle itself is impressive, with a total length of 149 feet. The solid rocket boosters, which are responsible for producing over 80% of the lift during takeoff, are 116 feet long and make up most of this length. The crew cabin, where the astronauts reside during their journey, is located at the front of the shuttle, with the rudder extending 200 feet into the night sky.

The Space Shuttle Endeavour has a rich history, having undocked from the International Space Station in 2007. During its STS-118 mission, the crew took a stunning image of the space station, looking back over the length of the shuttle. The name 'Endeavour' was chosen by students across the nation after a ship chartered to traverse the South Pacific in 1768.

The California Science Center plans to livestream the installation process, giving fans and enthusiasts around the world a glimpse into this historic moment. With the solid rocket motors now on site, the stage is set for a fascinating few weeks as the Space Shuttle Endeavour takes shape at its new home.

Length of space shuttle endeavour