description Space Shuttle Challenger Overview
Space Shuttle Challenger was NASA's second operational space shuttle orbiter to fly into space and first flew on the STS-6 mission in April 1983. It completed nine missions before the STS-51-L launch on January 28, 1986, when the vehicle broke apart 73 seconds after liftoff and all seven crew members died. The accident led to a major investigation and a suspension of shuttle flights.
help Space Shuttle Challenger FAQ
When did Space Shuttle Challenger first fly into space?
Challenger first flew into space on the STS-6 mission in April 1983. It was NASA's second operational space shuttle orbiter.
How many missions did Challenger complete?
Challenger completed nine missions before its final launch. Those flights included scientific, commercial, and satellite-related missions.
What happened to Space Shuttle Challenger?
During the STS-51-L launch on January 28, 1986, the vehicle broke apart 73 seconds after liftoff. The accident killed all seven crew members, including teacher Christa McAuliffe.
What was Challenger's role in the Space Shuttle fleet?
Challenger was the second operational orbiter after Columbia. Its missions included STS-6, the first flight of the vehicle, before the disaster on STS-51-L.
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