Challenger Disaster | Launch Day | 3
American Scandal
Deep Dive
Why were Thiokol engineers concerned about launching the Challenger in freezing temperatures?
Thiokol engineers were concerned because the O-rings, which seal the joints on the shuttle's rocket boosters, become less elastic and unreliable at temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This could lead to a fuel leak and potentially an explosion.
Why did NASA feel pressured to proceed with the Challenger launch despite the cold weather?
NASA was under intense media and public pressure due to the presence of Krista McAuliffe, the first civilian in space. The mission had already been postponed once, and further delays could have jeopardized NASA's ambitious schedule and public image.
What was the engineers' recommendation to NASA during the teleconference on January 27, 1986?
The Thiokol engineers recommended not launching the Challenger due to the cold temperatures, which they believed posed a significant risk to the O-rings. They provided data showing that the O-rings could fail at such low temperatures.
Why did Thiokol executives reverse their initial recommendation to cancel the launch?
Thiokol executives reversed their recommendation due to pressure from NASA and concerns about the company's relationship with NASA. They feared that refusing to launch could jeopardize their contract and reputation.
What were the conditions at the launch pad on the morning of January 28, 1986?
The launch pad was covered in ice, with icicles up to 18 inches long and frozen water in the sound suppression troughs. The temperatures were below freezing, which posed a significant risk to the shuttle's safety.
What was the reaction of Thiokol engineer Roger Boisjoly after the Challenger explosion?
Roger Boisjoly was devastated and felt certain that the O-rings were involved in the disaster. He was determined to tell the world that the tragedy could have been prevented if his warnings had been heeded.
How did NASA respond to the Challenger disaster in the immediate aftermath?
NASA officials at Mission Control locked down their monitors and offices to preserve data and prevent communication with the press. They held a press conference but were evasive about the cause of the explosion, downplaying the role of cold weather and launch delays.
What actions did Roger Boisjoly take to protect evidence after the Challenger disaster?
Roger Boisjoly gathered documents related to the O-rings and the launch, including presentation slides, data notebooks, and warning memos. He handed over only the least valuable documents to management and kept the rest locked in his desk drawer to prevent a potential cover-up.
- Freezing temperatures pose a risk to O-rings
- Pressure to launch due to civilian astronaut
- Concerns about jeopardizing Thiokol's relationship with NASA