Once in a while, I come across a photograph that’s so beautifully composed and so rich in narrative that I can’t help but say “I wish I took that.” This photograph, by Getty photographer Kevork Djansezian, is such a one.

The whole bittersweet story is right here in this picture. The traffic, the crowds, the billboards, the smog-tinged orange light and the ridiculous palm trees — this can only be Los Angeles. Space Shuttle Endeavour, originally built as a replacement for Challenger, makes its final journey from LAX to the California Science Center.

This spectacular photo-series from the Atlantic follows Endeavour on the trip: from LAX, past Randy’s Donuts, through South Central, and finally arriving at CSC.