Watch CBS News

It's Been 34 Years Since The Challenger Disaster

CAPE CANAVERAL (CBSMiami) — It's been 34 years since the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster.

Just 73 seconds into its flight on Jan. 28, 1986, the Challenger exploded, killing all seven on board.

The Challenger disintegrated over the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of central Florida, after a booster engine failed.

People all over the country watched the disaster live because the shuttle was carrying Christa McAuliffe, who would have been the first teacher in space.

(FILE PHOTO)  Space Shuttle Challenger Astronauts
(FILE PHOTO) Space Shuttle Challenger crew members gather for an official portrait November 11, 1985 in an unspecified location. (Back, L-R) Mission Specialist Ellison S. Onizuka, Teacher-in-Space participant Sharon Christa McAuliffe, Payload Specialist Greg Jarvis and mission specialist Judy Resnick. (Front, L-R) Pilot Mike Smith, commander Dick Scobee and mission specialist Ron McNair. The Challenger and its seven member crew were lost seventy three seconds after launch when a booster rocket failed. (Photo by NASA/Getty Images)

In addition to McAuliffe, crew members included Commander Dick Scobee, Gregory Jarvis, Ronald McNair, Ellison Onizuka, Judith Resnik, and co-pilot Michael J. Smith.

NASA's first Teacher in Space Project was designed to inspire students, honor teachers and spur interest in mathematics, science and space exploration.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.