| The Endeavour was the first sailing ship commanded by James Cook, the 18th century British explorer who did more for defining the map of the world than any explorer before his time. He increased man's view of earth as NASA's research and exploration have increased man's view of space. Because of his exploratory achievement, it is fitting that Endeavour should also serve as the namesake of the NASA Orbiter OV 105. The word itself expresses the desire of humanity to strive for the betterment of society and manifests the idea that one can achieve the impossible by perseverance and determination. |