The Challenger Legacy
A journey beyond the horizon, dedicated to the seven souls who expanded the boundaries of human endeavor. Their legacy continues to light the path for generations of explorers.
The Crew
Mission Timeline
The path of the journey
Liftoff
After several delays, Challenger lifts off from Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39B.
Breakup
The vehicle suffered a structural failure originating from the right Solid Rocket Booster O-ring seal.
National Mourning
President Ronald Reagan delivers a televised address, quoting the poem 'High Flight': 'Slipped the surly bonds of Earth to touch the face of God.'
The Legacy
The Challenger Center for Space Science Education was formed by the families to continue the crew's mission of education.
Community Stories
In Remembrance of the STS-51-L Crew
Commander
Scobee, Francis R.
Test pilot. Vietnam veteran. Led STS-51-L with quiet courage.
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Pilot
Smith, Michael J.
Navy test pilot. Father of three. His first spaceflight.
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Mission Specialist
McNair, Ronald E.
Physicist. Saxophonist. Second African American in space.
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Mission Specialist
Onizuka, Ellison S.
Air Force colonel. First Asian American in space.
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Mission Specialist
Resnik, Judith A.
Electrical engineer. Second American woman in space.
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Payload Specialist
Jarvis, Gregory B.
Satellite engineer for Hughes Aircraft. Dreamed of the cosmos.
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Teacher in Space
McAuliffe, Christa
New Hampshire schoolteacher. Chosen from 11,000 to teach from orbit.
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