Story perspectives

Today in History: Challenger disaster claims lives of seven astronauts

1/28/2025

49 5

Summary

Story summary

On January 28, 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger disintegrated 73 seconds after launch, resulting in the deaths of all seven crew members. The tragedy occurred at an altitude of 46,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, marking the first fatal accident in American spaceflight history during a mission.

1 of 1

Story summary

On January 28, 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger disintegrated 73 seconds after launch, resulting in the deaths of all seven crew members. The tragedy occurred at an altitude of 46,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, marking the first fatal accident in American spaceflight history during a mission.