Space Shuttle's External Tank Begins Journey To California Science Center
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — The massive space shuttle external fuel tank that was stationed in Marina Del Rey this week was making its final journey to the California Science Center Saturday morning.
The Department of Beaches and Harbors threw a "Party in the Park" event Friday as a send-off to the Space Shuttle Endeavour's External Tank,ET-94.
NASA's last remaining space shuttle fuel tank, ET-94 was displayed in Marina del Rey from Wednesday to Friday before making its way to the California Science Center.
"I think it's really cool that they're going to move something huge like this down the streets of LA," spectator John Perillo said.
At midnight, the tank will begin its 15-hour trip to Exposition Park, winding through several streets at less than 5 mph.
There was a black-tie gala complete with interactive displays and even a parade of astronauts in Marina del Rey on Friday.
The expensive party raised money for the tank's future home, the California Science Center.
People of all ages stopped at the marina to take photos with the behemoth, or simply just to marvel at its magnitude.
The tank was built for flight but was never used. Now it is a symbol of exploration and innovation.
"Now, I don't know anything about it from a scientific standpoint, but I know it brings everyone together," spectator Brian Herbert said.
The tank will soon join the space shuttle Endeavour, creating a full display in the launch position.
This will have a major impact on traffic overnight, especially for people going to and from LAX.
The tank will cause some street closures in and around the Marina del Rey area.
STREET CLOSURES:
Friday, May 20, 2016 (9:00 a.m.) – Saturday, May 21, 2016 (6:00 a.m.)
Fiji Way to Lincoln Boulevard
Lincoln Boulevard north to Mindanao Way
Mindanao Way east to the California (90) Freeway
The 90 Freeway east to Culver Boulevard
Culver Boulevard west back to Lincoln Boulevard
Lincoln Boulevard south to Manchester Avenue
Saturday, May 21, 2016 (1:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.)
Lincoln Boulevard south to Westchester Parkway
Westchester Parkway east to Arbor Vitae Street
Arbor Vitae Street east into the City of Inglewood
Saturday, May 21, 2016 (1:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.)
Manchester Avenue east to Vermont Avenue
Vermont Avenue north Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard
Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard east to Bill Robertson Lane
Bill Robertson Lane to final destination (California Science Center)
City officials say reopening times depend on the tank's movement through each area and restoration for the utility work that follows.
