Runner Calls On President, Congress To Retire Orbiter Atlantis In Palmdale

Sacramento –Assemblywoman Sharon Runner (R-Lancaster) has introduced a Joint Resolution requesting Palmdale, California as the permanent home of the retired Orbiter Atlantis.  If passed, the California Legislature would transmit an official request to the President and leaders of Congress, proposing Palmdale for the prestigious honor.

“It just makes sense for Atlantis to return home to Palmdale” said Runner.  “This resolution is an important step in the process.  It will demonstrate that California is united behind Palmdale as the proper location.”

Space Shuttle Atlantis carried out 21 space flights, including the Galileo planetary explorer mission in 1989.  The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) recently announced its intentions to stand down or inactivate the Orbiter Atlantis following mission STS-126, which is presently scheduled for April 2008.

Palmdale is where every orbiter, Enterprise through Endeavour, was assembled and tested, including Atlantis; the facility continues to support the Space Shuttle Program with hardware fabrication and repair.  Runner’s Assembly Joint Resolution 52 calls for public display of Atlantis at a designated museum, which the Palmdale facility could easily assist with.

“Having been born and raised in the Antelope Valley, I have seen our Aerospace industry grow and flourish here over the years.” said Runner.  “While it was some time ago, I can remember when Palmdale first delivered Atlantis for service to NASA back in 1985.”

Following introduction, AJR 52 now awaits referral to a policy committee.  If approved in committee, the resolution will move on for consideration by the full Assembly.