Space shuttle takeoff and landing of NASA’s Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) — a specially modified Boeing 747 used to transport Space Shuttle orbiters across the United States. After landing at locations like Edwards Air Force Base, the Space Shuttle couldn’t fly long distances on its own. That’s where this incredible aircraft came in, carrying orbiters such as Discovery, Endeavour, and Enterprise back to Kennedy Space Center, mounted right on top of the jet. The SCA was modified with extra struc