McCarthy Observatory Showcases Rare ‘Discovery' Shuttle Tire

The iconic Space Shuttle launch vehicle, Discovery, took off on its maiden voyage on August 30, 1984. After 27 years of service, it launched and landed 39 times and was retired on March 9, 2011.

The Shuttle Discovery ended up at the Smithsonian, but the John J. McCarthy Observatory on the campus of New Milford High School snagged the shuttle's main landing gear tire, which is on display outside the observatory for all to see.

John J. McCarthy Observatory at New Milford High School

READ ON: Weird, wild UFO sightings from throughout history

LOOK: The states with the most UFO sightings

For each state, we’ve also included details of famous UFO sightings in that state. Of note is that almost three-quarters of all UFO sighting reports in the United States occur between 4 p.m. and midnight, and tend to peak between 9 and 10 p.m. Food for thought next time you're out scoping for alien life. Keep reading to see which states have had the most UFO sightings.