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Intense Debate Over Relocating Space Shuttle Discovery Sparks Controversy

10/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The debate over relocating Space Shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian's Udvar-Hazy Center to Houston intensifies.
The Smithsonian warns that moving Discovery may require significant disassembly and could risk irreversible damage.
The move, directed by the Office of Management and Budget, costs $120–$150 million, well above the $85 million allocated.
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) challenge the Smithsonian's claims and raise questions about legality and museum artifacts.

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Story summary

The debate over relocating Space Shuttle Discovery from the Smithsonian's Udvar-Hazy Center to Houston intensifies.
The Smithsonian warns that moving Discovery may require significant disassembly and could risk irreversible damage.
The move, directed by the Office of Management and Budget, costs $120–$150 million, well above the $85 million allocated.
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) challenge the Smithsonian's claims and raise questions about legality and museum artifacts.