Museum takes ownership of space shuttle Endeavour

Nasa has transferred ownership of the retired space shuttle Endeavour to a museum in the US.

The ceremony marking the handover at the California Science Centre was attended by several members of Endeavour’s last crew, including Mark Kelly – husband of shot US politician Gabrielle Giffords.

Endeavour is expected to arrive next year at Los Angeles International Airport and then be towed through the streets to the museum.

Museum president Jeffrey Rudolph said Endeavour will be housed horizontally in a temporary display until a permanent exhibit is built. Its final position will be vertical, as if it is ready to launch.

Nasa retired the space shuttle fleet in July after three decades of flying. Museums in Washington, Florida and New York will receive the remaining shuttles.