The Challenger Legacy
A journey that captured the hearts of a generation. Dedicated to the seven pioneers who reached for the stars and the teacher who aimed to bring the universe into our classrooms.
The Crew
Commander
Francis R. Scobee
Air Force pilot and veteran of STS-41-C.
Pilot
Michael J. Smith
Navy captain and experienced test pilot.
Mission Specialist
Ronald McNair
Physicist and accomplished saxophonist.
Mission Specialist
Ellison Onizuka
The first Asian American in space.
Mission Specialist
Judith Resnik
Electrical engineer and second American woman in space.
Payload Specialist
Gregory Jarvis
Engineer specialized in satellite design.
Teacher in Space
Christa McAuliffe
Chosen from 11,000 to be the first teacher in space.
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.