The reveal marks the completion of the multi-year project that began with groundbreaking in 2022 and culminated in spring 2026 with the building’s completion.

NASA contributed $65 million to obtain the external tank ET-94, a critical and rare artifact, after lengthy negotiations.

Lynda Oschin, widow of Samuel Oschin, highlighted the display as a meaningful tribute to her husband and a foundation gift that preserves his memory.

Aerospace and defense investments and job-creating expansions in California are highlighted, including CalCompetes tax credits and multiple company expansions.

Endeavour’s history and NASA centers in California are noted, with attention to the shuttle’s missions and the state’s leadership in NASA-related spending.

A six-month process attached Endeavour to its boosters and external tank, an operation described as the historically challenging Go For Stack.

The California Science Center will open the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center to the public on November 13, featuring a vertical, ready-to-launch display of Space Shuttle Endeavour as the centerpiece of the Samuel Oschin Shuttle Gallery.

The exhibit emphasizes education and inspiration, including interactive experiences such as a gantry-style elevator ascent, a 45-foot descent slide, and a replica flight deck with cockpit controls.

The complex houses multiple galleries, including the Korean Air Aviation Gallery and the Kent Kresa Space Gallery, with more than 25 aircraft and spacecraft artifacts and ongoing installation ahead of opening.

The project took four years to build, achieving a stacking of the shuttle that engineers once considered impractical.

Led by Dennis R. Jenkins, the project involves ZGF Architects, Arup engineers, MATT Construction, and Evidence Design for exhibits; donors include the Samuel Oschin Family Foundation, Korean Air, and the Kresa Foundation, contributing about $410 million toward a $450 million goal.

Governor Gavin Newsom praised the expansion for advancing science education and innovation for future generations.