Challenger Explosion January 28, 1986

[FLMom]

We shall never forget them nor the last time we saw them, as they prepared for their mission and waved good-bye and slipped the surly bonds of Earth to touch the face of God.

Ronald Reagan


January 28, 1986. I was working construction at the time, digging footers and going up and down ladders. It was the only time I ever heard the site silent. . . no one could say a word except a few muttered "damn"'s.

Covered live at the time by a California news station:

[SadieMae]

I remember this so clearly. I was home with my first newborn son feeding him while watching this. He was only 10 days old. I was so excited for Christa being the first teacher in space.

[Armchair Detective]

I remember this too but I was in high school... and therefore tuned out to its significance

[TexasMom]

I was a sophmore in high school and home sick with strep. My mom and I were watching it live. Everyone was so excited about the first teacher in space. We sat there in silence completely horrified after it blew up. God Bless these American heros.