Challenger Disaster: Key Facts and Impacts

The Challenger disaster on January 28, 1986, was a tragic event that changed space exploration. The shuttle exploded 73 seconds after liftoff, killing all seven crew members, including teacher Christa McAuliffe. The disaster was caused by the failure of an O-ring in cold temperatures. It led to a major investigation and overhaul of NASA's safety practices, highlighting the importance of safety over schedule. The event left a lasting impact on NASA and the world, inspiring changes in space travel and safety protocols.

What was the primary significance of the Challenger mission?

• It was the first shuttle to orbit the moon.

• It included the first civilian, a teacher, in space.

• It was the first shuttle to land on Mars.

• It was the first shuttle to carry a satellite.

How long after liftoff did the Challenger disaster occur?

• 100 seconds

• 50 seconds

• 120 seconds

• 73 seconds

What component failure led to the Challenger disaster?

• Engine

• Fuel tank

• Parachute

• O-ring

What weather condition contributed to the O-ring failure?

• Heavy rain

• High winds

• Fog

• Cold temperatures

What was a major criticism of NASA's decision-making process?

• Lack of funding

• Poor shuttle design

• Inadequate training

• Ignoring engineer warnings

What was the main reason for proceeding with the launch despite warnings?

• Weather conditions

• Public excitement

• Pressure to maintain schedule

• Technical issues

What was one of the outcomes of the Rogers Commission's investigation?

• Increased funding for NASA

• Launch of a new shuttle immediately

• Overhaul of NASA's safety practices

• Cancellation of the shuttle program

How long did it take NASA to launch another shuttle after the Challenger disaster?

• 1 year

• 2 years

• 3 years

• 4 years

What was the name of the mission that marked NASA's return to space after the Challenger disaster?

• Endeavour

• Discovery

• Atlantis

• Columbia

What lasting impact did the Challenger disaster have on space exploration?

• Increased focus on speed over safety

• Significant changes in space travel and safety

• Decreased interest in space exploration

• No impact on future missions