Smithsonian warns moving Space Shuttle Discovery to Texas would require dismantling

CHANTILLY, Va. — Could Space Shuttle Discovery be cut into pieces? In a letter sent to Congressional leaders, the Smithsonian warns the beloved historic gem in Virginia could be taken apart if the effort to relocate it advances.

Amid an ongoing debate , the letter is in response to a request from the White House’s Office of Management and Budget for NASA and the Smithsonian to prepare the move to Texas within 18 months and determine the “actual costs” associated with the move.

“While an engineering study will be necessary due to the size and weight of the space vehicle, both NASA and the Smithsonian believe that Discovery will have to undergo significant disassembly to be moved,” the letter sent to Appropriations Committee members read. “Discovery is the most intact shuttle orbiter of