President Obama to attend Endeavour shuttle launch
President Obama plans to attend the April 29 launch of space shuttle Endeavour, adding even more star power to NASA’s second-to-last shuttle launch, according to a White House official.
The president will bring his wife, Michelle, and two daughters, Sasha and Malia, to the launch, now scheduled at 3:47 p.m. a week from Friday
Sources close to the discussion said several factors played into his decision to attend.
For one, Obama already plans to be in Florida that day for a commencement address at Miami Dade College. Secondly, the Endeavour launch carries major significance -- beyond the emotion expected to accompany the sunset of the 30-year shuttle program.
Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.), severely wounded during an assassination attempt in January, also is planning to attend and watch her husband, Endeavour commander Mark Kelly, lead a crew of six into orbit. Supporters see the trip as a sign she is recovering from her gunshot wounds.
You can read more about the announcement from our partners at the Orlando Sentinel.
Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter
Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond. In your inbox three times per week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
