When the shuttle missions started in the 1980s , NASA designated several places as landing strips for the orbiter , including Edwards AFB in California . Shuttle Discovery hitches ride atop a Boeing 747 to Washington . The load is not as taxing on the specially outfitted 747 as you might first think . Hide Caption 1 of 11 Photos:Space shuttle Endeavour prepares for final mission
Shuttle Discovery hitches ride atop a Boeing 747 to Washington . The load is not as taxing on the specially outfitted 747 as you might first think . Hide Caption 1 of 11 Photos:Space shuttle Endeavour prepares for final mission