Wednesday, Jan 28, 2026

Left: STS-51L crew members Michael J. Smith, front row left, Francis R. “Dick” Scobee, Ronald E. McNair; Ellison S. Onizuka, back row left, S. Christa McAuliffe, Gregory B. Jarvis, and Judith A. Resnik. Image Credit: NASA.

On the 40th anniversary of the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, we remember the seven astronauts who lost their lives—Francis “Dick” Scobee, Michael Smith, Ronald McNair, Ellison Onizuka, Judith Resnik, Gregory Jarvis, and Christa McAuliffe—and honor their courage, curiosity, and commitment to exploration. Their mission embodied humanity’s enduring drive to learn, to teach, and to push beyond what is known. Challenger stands as a solemn reminder that space exploration is not without risk, and that progress is often hard-won. We carry their legacy forward by continuing to explore with humility, care, and an unwavering respect for those who take these risks in the pursuit of discovery.
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