The Space Shuttle Challenger was lost with all hands 25 years ago today, Jan. 28th, 1986. I remember like it was yesterday. I was in 9th grade going to Don Lugo High School out in Chino. I was in my History class and they had set up a TV so we could all watch the launch live. I was so excited that we were going to be able to watch it live as I'm a huge geek and space lover. I was following all the prepping for this mission, Was excited that a civilian/teacher was going up for the first time. I couldn't wait until the launch.
When the shuttle launched everyone started to cheered. I don't think anyone could have ever imagined what would happen next. I remember the cheers slowly died down as folks started to realize that something was wrong. I don't remember much else from that day.. it's kind of one big blur. This is one of those events that you can remember exactly where you were and what you were doing when it happened. It's some thing that I will never forget for as long as I live.
We lost some brave men and women that day.. may they never be forgotten.
That truly was a sad moment, seems most of NASA's darkest hours where at this time of year, Challenger on January 28th, Columbia on February 1st and the Apollo 1 fire January 27th.
ReplyDeleteExploration has always been a dangerous game, countless people have died by the seas, settling new continents, mastering flight and now by taking the first baby steps into the final frontier.
"But it should be noted that this death takes place in the shadow of new life, the sunrise of a new world; a world that our beloved comrade gave his life to protect and nourish. He did not feel this sacrifice a vain or empty one." -- Kirk, Wrath of Khan