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Space Shuttle Discovery Arrives At Smithsonian

By  //  April 21, 2012

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SPACE & NASA

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WASHINGTON, DC — NASA transferred Space Shuttle Discovery to the Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum during a ceremony this week at the Stephen F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virgina.

Space Shuttles Enterprise, left, and Discovery meet nose-to-nose at the beginning of a welcome ceremony at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, Thursday, April 19, 2012, in Chantilly, Va. (Image by Carolyn Russo, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution)

After three decades of space service, NASA’s oldest and most traveled shuttle, Discovery, began its new life as a museum relic with one final takeoff. Discovery departed Florida’s Kennedy Space Center at daybreak Tuesday aboard a modified jumbo jet bound for Washington, where it will become a Smithsonian exhibit.

“Discovery has distinguished itself as the champion of America’s shuttle fleet. In its new home, it will shine as an American icon, educating and inspiring people of all ages for generations to come,” National Air and Space Museum Director, General John “Jack” Dailey said.

“The Museum is committed to teaching and inspiring youngsters, so that they will climb the ladder of academic success and choose professions that will help America be competitive and successful in the world of tomorrow.”