NASA is exploring the possibility of selling the U. S. shuttles that NASA plans to retire from service in 2010.

The three current Space Shuttle orbiters could be available to museums and schools at a price of $42 million.

This is the first time that NASA has initiated such an endeavor. Probably the economic crisis is forcing it to do so. As it is, the de-commissioned shuttles are of no use to NASA.

The space agency has already intimated museums, schools and similar institutions to gauge their interest and qualifications for properly housing and displaying Discovery, Atlantis or Endeavour.

Though these three shuttles would retire by September 30, 2010, but they would only be available after a year, NASA spokesman Michael Curie said Thursday.

"These are national assets, national treasures and something that NASA feels the public would want to see displayed publicly for years to come," Curie said. She also said that these shuttles are artifacts which are important milestones in the history. The public should have the privilege to see them.

The shuttles will be sold without their engines. These along with other components will be offered separately.