texas Senators Push to Relocate Space Shuttle Discovery, Sparking Smithsonian Dispute
A contentious battle is brewing over the future of the Space Shuttle Discovery, as two Texas senators attempt to redirect taxpayer funds to move the iconic spacecraft from the Smithsonian’s Udvar-Hazy Centre in Virginia to Space Center Houston. The proposal has ignited a debate about the ownership and preservation of national artifacts.
The senators from the Lone Star State reportedly added legislation to a larger bill, dubbed “One Big Stunning Bill,” that would authorize the transfer of Discovery. This move has prompted a swift response from the Smithsonian Institution, which maintains that its collections are not subject to such political maneuvering.
Smithsonian Defends Artifact ownership
Chris Browne, Director of the Air and Space Museum, expressed surprise at the attempt to seize a Smithsonian artifact. “I am unaware of a member of Congress or any governance ever trying to seize an artifact from the Smithsonian,” he stated. Browne emphasized that while the Smithsonian receives approximately 60% of its funding from taxpayer dollars, its collections are considered beyond the reach of external claims. “It’s never been considered, nor should it be considered, government property,” he asserted. “It is beyond the reach of others that would want to sort of pick from it.”
Funding Discrepancies Fuel controversy
Sens. John Cornyn and Ted Cruz initially requested $85 million in federal funding to cover the relocation costs. However,the Smithsonian estimates the actual cost of moving the Space Shuttle Discovery across the country would range between $300 million and $400 million. this significant discrepancy has raised questions about the feasibility and financial obligation of the proposal.
“Come back Home” Argument Faces Scrutiny
At a recent event held at Space Center Houston, Cornyn argued that the city’s prominent role in the space programme warrants the shuttle’s relocation, stating that Discovery should “come back home.” However, it was noted that the spacecraft was neither manufactured nor launched from Houston, raising questions about the rationale behind the request.
Requests for comment from Cornyn’s office went unanswered as of press time.
Preservation Concerns at the Forefront
Browne underscored the Smithsonian’s commitment to preserving its collections intact. “For us to tell stories authentically and on behalf of the nation, it’s important that we steward this collection intact just as it is and resist efforts to dismantle or pull from it from any corner,” he explained.
The initial attempt to pass the legislation was blocked due to a Senate rule regarding amendments to existing bills. Though,the proposal could resurface as the Senate continues to debate “One Big Beautiful Bill,” leaving the future of the Space Shuttle Discovery uncertain.
