# Independence > Space Shuttle replica on display at Space Center Houston **Wikidata**: [Q994165](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q994165) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_Shuttle_Independence) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/independence ## Summary **Independence** is a full-scale replica of a Space Shuttle orbiter, displayed at Space Center Houston in the United States. Built by Guard-Lee in 1993, it was originally named **Space Shuttle Explorer** before being renamed in 2013. The replica measures 122.7 feet in length, 54 feet in height, and has a wingspan of 78 feet, closely matching the dimensions of a real Space Shuttle orbiter. ## Key Facts - **Instance of**: Space Shuttle orbiter replica, exhibit - **Mass**: 171,860 pounds (77,954.4 kg) - **Height**: 54 feet (16.5 meters) - **Length**: 122.7 feet (37.4 meters) - **Wingspan**: 78 feet (23.8 meters) - **Manufacturer**: Guard-Lee - **Inception**: 1993 - **Location**: Space Center Houston (since June 2012) - **Official name**: Independence (since October 5, 2013) - **Country of origin**: United States - **Aliases**: Space Shuttle Explorer, Explorer ## FAQs ### Q: What is Independence? A: Independence is a full-scale replica of a Space Shuttle orbiter, built by Guard-Lee in 1993. It is displayed at Space Center Houston in the United States and was originally named Space Shuttle Explorer before being renamed in 2013. ### Q: Where is Independence located? A: Independence is located at Space Center Houston in Houston, Texas. It has been on display there since June 2012. ### Q: How big is Independence? A: Independence measures 122.7 feet in length, 54 feet in height, and has a wingspan of 78 feet, closely resembling the dimensions of a real Space Shuttle orbiter. ### Q: Who built Independence? A: Independence was built by Guard-Lee in 1993. ### Q: What is the significance of Independence? A: Independence serves as an educational exhibit, allowing visitors to experience the scale and design of a Space Shuttle orbiter. It has been renamed to symbolize its role as a symbol of freedom and exploration. ## Why It Matters Independence is a key educational exhibit at Space Center Houston, providing visitors with a tangible representation of the Space Shuttle orbiter. Its full-scale design allows for an immersive experience, helping to educate the public about the engineering and history of NASA's Space Shuttle program. The replica was originally named Space Shuttle Explorer but was renamed Independence in 2013, symbolizing its role as a beacon of freedom and exploration. The exhibit plays a crucial role in inspiring future generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers. ## Notable For - **Full-scale replica**: Independence is one of the largest and most detailed Space Shuttle replicas, accurately depicting the orbiter's dimensions and design. - **Educational exhibit**: It serves as a key educational resource, allowing visitors to interact with and learn about the Space Shuttle program. - **Symbol of freedom**: Renamed Independence, the replica represents the spirit of exploration and freedom associated with space travel. - **Historical significance**: As a replica of a Space Shuttle orbiter, Independence provides a tangible connection to NASA's Space Shuttle missions and their impact on space exploration. ## Body ### Overview Independence is a full-scale replica of a Space Shuttle orbiter, built by Guard-Lee in 1993. It was originally named Space Shuttle Explorer before being renamed Independence in 2013. The replica is displayed at Space Center Houston in the United States, serving as an educational exhibit for visitors. ### Dimensions and Design Independence measures 122.7 feet in length, 54 feet in height, and has a wingspan of 78 feet. These dimensions closely match those of a real Space Shuttle orbiter, providing an accurate representation of the spacecraft's size and design. The replica's mass is 171,860 pounds (77,954.4 kg). ### Location and Display Independence has been on display at Space Center Houston since June 2012. The center is located in Houston, Texas, and is a key destination for space enthusiasts and educational visitors. The replica's display has been part of various events and exhibitions, including the "Shuttlebration" event in 2012. ### Historical Context The replica was built in 1993 and was originally named Space Shuttle Explorer. It was later renamed Independence in 2013, symbolizing its role as a symbol of freedom and exploration. The replica has been featured in various media and events, including the "Galaxy Gala" at Space Center Houston in 2015. ### Significance Independence serves as an educational exhibit, allowing visitors to experience the scale and design of a Space Shuttle orbiter. The replica's full-scale design and historical context provide valuable insights into the engineering and history of NASA's Space Shuttle program. The exhibit plays a crucial role in inspiring future generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers. ## References 1. [Space shuttle replica docks in Houston lake, launches 'Shuttlebration'. collectSPACE. 2012](http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-060112b.html) 2. [Space Shuttle Replica Explorer Sets Sail for Houston on Open-air Barge. SpaceNews. 2012](https://spacenews.com/space-shuttle-replica-explorer-sets-sail-houston-open-air-barge/) 3. [Mock Space Shuttle Moves to Make Way for Real Thing. space.com. 2011](https://www.space.com/13898-mock-space-shuttle-explorer-florida-move.html) 4. [Houston's space shuttle replica christened 'Independence'. collectSPACE. 2013](http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-100513a.html) 5. [Mock space shuttle lifts off — or, more precisely, is lifted off. NBC News. 2011](https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna45644283) 6. [Chuck Norris delivers punch of support for space shuttle exhibit at Houston gala. collectSPACE. 2015](http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-051715a-shuttle-747-galaxy-gala.html) 7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 8. [Shuttle Replica Departs Kennedy for Ocean Voyage to Houston on a Barge - Enterprise is Next. 2012](https://www.universetoday.com/95361/shuttle-replica-departs-kennedy-for-ocean-voyage-to-houston-on-a-barge-enterprise-is-next/) 9. [2014](http://www.spaceflightinsider.com/space-centers/johnson-space-center/independence-rises-history-atop-sca-space-center-houston/)