Challenger Disaster | Bigger, Faster, Cheaper | 1
American Scandal
Deep Dive
Why was the launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger particularly significant for the Scobie family?
The launch was significant for the Scobie family because June Scobie's husband, Dick, was the commander of the mission. It was also his final mission, as the couple had recently become grandparents and were looking forward to a more peaceful life together.
Why was the launch day of the Challenger unusually cold?
The launch day of the Challenger was unusually cold, causing the launch to be delayed by several hours to clear icicles from the shuttle. This made it one of the coldest launch days in NASA's history.
Why were the families of the astronauts on the roof of the Launch Control Center?
The families of the astronauts were on the roof of the Launch Control Center to watch the launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger, a special occasion for many, including June Scobie and her family.
Why did the families of the astronauts become concerned during the launch?
The families became concerned when they saw a large white light flash on the distant shuttle, followed by two separate trails of smoke moving apart in the shape of a Y. The crowd's cheers gave way to a quiet murmur, and the families realized something was wrong.
Why did NASA decide to develop the space shuttle program?
NASA decided to develop the space shuttle program to make space travel cheaper, more frequent, and capable of carrying large payloads, including military equipment and satellites. They aimed to create a reusable spacecraft that could land back on Earth and be used again, much like a commercial aircraft.
Why did NASA choose solid rocket fuel for the space shuttle?
NASA chose solid rocket fuel for the space shuttle to accommodate the larger and heavier design required for carrying commercial and military cargo. However, this decision was controversial because solid fuel is more dangerous and cannot be shut off once ignited, unlike liquid fuel.
Why did the space shuttle program face budget and schedule challenges?
The space shuttle program faced budget and schedule challenges due to the complexity of the new spacecraft, the need to invent new systems, and the decision to test fully constructed engines rather than individual components. This led to numerous failures and delays, including the loss of heat-shielding tiles during transport.
Why was the first space shuttle, Columbia, significant for NASA and the public?
The first space shuttle, Columbia, was significant for NASA and the public because it marked the first manned American spaceflight in six years and was the first time solid rocket fuel was used for a crewed launch. The successful launch and landing rekindled public enthusiasm for space travel.
Why did the O-rings in the solid rocket boosters pose a significant risk?
The O-rings in the solid rocket boosters posed a significant risk because they were critical components that sealed the joints between booster sections. If they sustained enough damage, a flame from the pressurized solid rocket fuel could leak through, causing a catastrophic explosion. This was a potential flaw that could have led to the loss of the entire shuttle and its crew.
Why was the inspection of the solid rocket boosters after the Columbia test launch important?
The inspection of the solid rocket boosters after the Columbia test launch was important because it revealed significant damage to the O-rings, which could have led to a catastrophic failure. This discovery was crucial for ensuring the safety of future launches and for alerting NASA to a potential design flaw.
- Challenger launch on January 28, 1986
- June Scobie's emotional experience witnessing the disaster
- Immediate reactions of families present at the launch