One Small Step for Man, One Giant Leap for Mankind!

Endeavour makes its way over the Capitol at approximately 7:35 a.m

Texans were treated to a front row view of the Space Shuttle Endeavour as she raced above the Texas Capitol this morning on her way to her final landing in California.

Our nation’s manned space program has evolved from capsules to shuttles in the span of my lifetime. Brave men and women worked tirelessly to “boldly go where no man has gone before,” and brought together a country focused on our future. Astronauts persevered through tragedy to triumph as they advanced our space exploration initiatives and achieved astonishing scientific breakthroughs.

Above: Commissioner Staples captures Texas pride and American ingenuity.
Below: Endeavour bids farewell to Austin on its way to California.

These pictures were taken from my office on the top floor of the Stephen F. Austin state office building in downtown Austin. I think these images are somewhat fitting when you consider Stephen F. Austin symbolizes a pioneering spirit and the birth of the Republic of Texas, and the Endeavour symbolizes a new generation advancing the pioneering spirit of 1492, 1776 and 1836.

Although the Endeavour made its last journey today, her voyage is a celebration of what has been − and a reminder of what is possible. Onward!