Space Shuttle Discovery to Remain at the Smithsonian – Why It Belongs Where It Is
Space Shuttle Discovery to Remain at the Smithsonian – Why It Belongs Where It Is
Image: Space Shuttle Discovery to Remain at the Smithsonian – Why It Belongs Where It Is – Performance Comparison and Specifications
It looks like Space Shuttle Discovery won’t have to pack its bags for the Lone Star state just yet. The historic orbiter, which logged 39 missions and helped launch the Hubble Space Telescope, is set to stay at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. In this article we’ll explore the reasons behind the decision, compare Discovery’s features with its sister ships, and even draw a few surprising parallels to today’s automotive technology.
Why the Smithsonian Is the Perfect Home
When Discovery lifted off for the first time in 1984, it did more than just reach orbit – it captured the imagination of an entire generation. The Smithsonian, with its world‑class conservation labs and millions of visitors each year, offers an environment where the shuttle can continue to inspire. A recent NASA press release confirmed that the shuttle will remain in the museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center rather than being transferred to Texas.
Keeping Discovery where it belongs also respects the legacy of the Space Shuttle Program. The museum’s climate‑controlled hangar ensures that the thermal‑protective tiles and delicate avionics stay in optimal condition—something a public display in a non‑climate‑controlled facility could jeopardize.
Design & Dimensions
| Parameter | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 122 ft (37.2 m) | Longer than a typical 2‑deck bus |
| Wingspan | 78 ft (23.8 m) | Comparable to a football field width |
| Height | 57 ft (17.3 m) | Roughly the height of a 5‑story building |
| Maximum Take‑off Weight | 2,030,000 lb (920,000 kg) | Heavier than a fully loaded cargo ship |
The sheer size of Discovery often surprises visitors who first see the orbiter from ground level. Its dimensions are comparable to a modern full‑size SUV in length, but its volume is closer to a small commercial aircraft.
Feature Comparison with Other Shuttles
| Feature | Discovery | Atlantis | Endeavour |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Flight | 1984 | 1985 | 1992 |
| Total Missions | 39 | 33 | 25 |
| Notable Mission | Hubble Deployment (1990) | Mir Docking (1995) | STS‑134 (2008) |
| Current Display | Smithsonian (Virginia) | Kennedy Space Center | California Science Center |
While all three orbiters share the same basic architecture, Discovery’s record‑breaking missions give it a unique place in history. It’s the only shuttle to have flown more than 30 times, a fact that resonates with car enthusiasts who value high mileage and proven reliability—much like a turbo‑petrol engine that has logged hundreds of thousands of kilometers without losing performance.
Engine Specifications
| Engine Type | Thrust (kN) | Fuel |
|---|---|---|
| Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) | 1,860 each (3 total) | Liquid Hydrogen / Liquid Oxygen |
| Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) | 26 each (2 total) | Hypergolic (Aerozine‑50 / N2O4) |
The three SSMEs acted like the high‑performance V8s of a sports car, delivering instant thrust and precise throttle control. Modern automotive technology such as ADAS (Advanced Driver‑Assistance Systems) mirrors the shuttle’s sophisticated guidance, navigation, and control software, both striving for safety and optimal performance.
Price Comparison: Building vs. Preserving
| Cost Item | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Construction (per orbiter) | $1.7 billion | Adjusted for 2020 dollars |
| Annual Museum Maintenance | $3 million | Climate control, security, staffing |
| Potential Sale to Private Collector | $400 million | Speculative market value |
| Educational Outreach Value | Priceless | Inspires future engineers & pilots |
From a purely financial standpoint, the cost to keep Discovery on public display is a drop in the bucket compared with the billions spent to build it. Moreover, the intangible educational benefits far outweigh any speculative resale price.
Public Reaction and Personal Anecdotes
When I first saw Discovery at the Udvar‑Hazy Center, I was reminded of the first time I sat behind the wheel of a new turbo‑petrol sedan equipped with ADAS. The sensation of power coupled with the confidence of advanced safety systems felt similar to watching the shuttle’s engines roar to life. Both experiences blend raw engineering with a promise of a safer, brighter future.
Social media buzzed with hashtags like #DiscoveryHome and #SmithsonianShuttle, showing that the public values authenticity over relocation. Fans argue that moving the orbiter to Texas would dilute its connection to the capital’s historic aerospace narrative.
Future Plans for Discovery at the Smithsonian
The museum plans to introduce interactive exhibits that let visitors explore the shuttle’s avionics, much like a modern car’s infotainment system. Virtual reality stations will simulate a launch, giving a taste of the G‑forces that astronauts endure. These initiatives ensure that Discovery remains not only a static display but a living classroom.
Conclusion
Keeping Space Shuttle Discovery at the Smithsonian is more than a logistical decision—it’s a tribute to a vessel that has helped humanity reach for the stars. By preserving it where millions can walk beneath its wings, we guarantee that the legacy of Discovery will continue to spark curiosity, just as a well‑engineered car equipped with ADAS inspires confidence on the road. The shuttle belongs at the heart of America’s capital, a reminder that exploration, whether in space or on highways, starts with bold design and unwavering dedication.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why was Discovery considered for relocation to Texas?
Some proposals suggested moving the orbiter to the Johnson Space Center to consolidate shuttle artifacts, but logistical costs and preservation concerns outweighed the benefits.
2. How many missions did Discovery complete?
Discovery flew a record‑breaking 39 missions, more than any other shuttle in the fleet.
3. What is the most famous mission of Discovery?
STS‑31 in 1990, which deployed the Hubble Space Telescope, remains its most iconic flight.
4. Can I see Discovery in person?
Yes, the orbiter is on permanent display at the Smithsonian’s Udvar‑Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia.
5. How does the shuttle’s guidance system compare to modern car technology?
Both rely on sophisticated computer algorithms; the shuttle’s navigation software paved the way for today’s ADAS features.
6. What are the main engines used on Discovery?
Discovery is powered by three Space Shuttle Main Engines (SSMEs) and two Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) thrusters.
7. How much did it cost to build Discovery?
Adjusted for inflation, each shuttle orbiter cost roughly $1.7 billion to construct.
8. Will the Smithsonian add new interactive elements?
Plans include VR launch simulations and hands‑on avionics displays slated for the next few years.
9. Is there any chance Discovery will ever be moved again?
Current agreements keep the shuttle at the Smithsonian for the foreseeable future.
10. How does Discovery’s legacy influence today’s aerospace projects?
The shuttle’s reusable design and modular systems inspire modern launch vehicles, just as legacy automotive platforms influence today’s hybrid and electric models.
