The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen after June Scobee Rodgers, widow of Challenger Space Shuttle Commander Dick Scobee and NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, along with others from NASA, participated in a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Friday, Feb. 1, 2013, at Arlington National Cemetery. Wreathes were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Remembrances are seen at the base of the Space Shuttle Challenger Crew Memorial during NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were also laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen just after NASA astronaut Joe Acaba placed a flower there, Friday, June 15, 2018 at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA astronauts Joe Acaba, left, and Mark Vande Hei visit the Space Shuttle Challenger and Columbia memorials, Friday, June 15, 2018 at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA astronaut Joe Acaba places a flower at the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial, Friday, June 15, 2018 at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Acting NASA Administrator Steve Jurczyk places a wreath at the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial during a ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Items are seen at the Space Shuttle Challenger memorial on National Wreaths Across America Day at Arlington National Cemetery, Sat., Dec. 14, 2019 in Arlington, Va. National Wreaths Across America Day is held annually to celebrate the lives of military veterans. NASA astronaut Doug Wheelock attended to honor those who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration as well as fellow service members. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Items are seen at the Space Shuttle Challenger memorial on National Wreaths Across America Day at Arlington National Cemetery, Sat., Dec. 14, 2019 in Arlington, Va. National Wreaths Across America Day is held annually to celebrate the lives of military veterans. NASA astronaut Doug Wheelock attended to honor those who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration as well as fellow service members. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA astronaut Doug Wheelock leaves his STS-120 mission patch at the memorial for the Space Shuttle Challenger crew during National Wreaths Across America Day at Arlington National Cemetery, Sat., Dec. 14, 2019 in Arlington, Va. National Wreaths Across America Day is held annually to celebrate the lives of military veterans and wreaths are placed at the foot of every headstone. Wheelock honored those who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration as well as fellow service members. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA astronaut Doug Wheelock lays a wreath at the memorial for the Space Shuttle Challenger crew during National Wreaths Across America Day at Arlington National Cemetery, Sat., Dec. 14, 2019 in Arlington, Va. National Wreaths Across America Day is held annually to celebrate the lives of military veterans and wreaths are placed at the foot of every headstone. Wheelock honored those who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration as well as fellow service members. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Amy Resnik, sister-in-law of the late space shuttle Challenger astronaut Judy Resnik, left, and Kristy Carroll, family friend of the late space shuttle Columbia astronaut William McCool embrace by the Space Shuttle Columbia and Challenger Memorials during NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Kennedy Space Center workers and guests place flowers at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida during the Day of Remembrance on Jan. 26, 2023. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Kennedy Space Center workers and guests placed flowers at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida during the Day of Remembrance on Jan. 26, 2023. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
The Space Mirror Memorial is in view before the start of the Day of Remembrance ceremony at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida on Jan. 26, 2023. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
June Scobee Rodgers, widow of Challenger Space Shuttle Commander Dick Scobee, visits the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial durring a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2015, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
A wreath has been placed in front of the Space Mirror Memorial during the Day of Remembrance ceremony at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida on Jan. 26, 2023. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Amy Resnik, wife of Chuck Resnik, touches the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial after a wreath laying ceremony as part of NASA’s Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Chuck Resnik is the brother of late space shuttle Challenger astronaut Judy Resnik. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Astronauts Memorial Foundation President and CEO Thad Altman speaks during NASA’s Day of Remembrance ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, inside the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The annual event honors the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- President and C.E.O. of The Astronauts Memorial Foundation Stephen Feldman displays a single yellow rose near the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida during a Day of Remembrance ceremony to honor members of the NASA family who lost their lives while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. The memorial honors 24 United States astronauts, including the crew members of space shuttles Columbia and Challenger, Apollo 1, and those who died in training and commercial airplane accidents. The memorial is a project of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation and was paid for by Florida residents who purchased special Challenger mission automobile license plates. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
A memorial wreath inside the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida commemorates NASA’s Day of Remembrance on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. The annual event honors the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Friday, Jan. 31, 2014, at Arlington National Cemetery. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen prior to a wreath laying ceremony as part of NASA’s Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen after a wreath laying ceremony as part of NASA’s Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
Remembrances are seen left at the base of the Space Shuttle Challenger Crew Memorial during NASA's Day of Remembrance, Friday, Jan. 31, 2014, at Arlington National Cemetery. Wreaths were also laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial is seen after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2015, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Kennedy Space Center Director and former astronaut Bob Cabana answers media questions during a Day of Remembrance wreath laying ceremony at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony honors members of the NASA family who lost their lives while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. The memorial displays the names of 24 United States astronauts, including the crew members of space shuttles Columbia and Challenger, Apollo 1, and those who died in training and commercial airplane accidents. The memorial is a project of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation and was paid for by Florida residents who purchased special Challenger mission automobile license plates. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, are honored by NASA Kennedy Space Center employees and guests with a ceremony at the Kennedy Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial on Jan. 28, 2021. The date marked the 35th anniversary of the Challenger tragedy. NASA centers throughout the country participate in the agency’s annual Day of Remembrance memorial event.
The Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial, left, and Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial, right, are seen after a wreath laying ceremony as part of NASA’s Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
The Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial, foreground, and the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial, background, are seen during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A wreath is displayed at the foot of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida during a Day of Remembrance ceremony to honor members of the NASA family who lost their lives while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. The memorial honors 24 United States astronauts, including the crew members of space shuttles Columbia and Challenger, Apollo 1, and those who died in training and commercial airplane accidents. The memorial is a project of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation and was paid for by Florida residents who purchased special Challenger mission automobile license plates. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Pictured near the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida are the members of the NASA family who lost their lives while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. The memorial honors 24 United States astronauts, including the crew members of space shuttles Columbia and Challenger, Apollo 1, and those who died in training and commercial airplane accidents. The memorial is a project of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation and was paid for by Florida residents who purchased special Challenger mission automobile license plates. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A flag flies at half-staff near the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida during a Day of Remembrance wreath laying ceremony to honor members of the NASA family who lost their lives while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. The large mirror made of black granite was designated as a national memorial by Congress and President George Bush in 1991. It honors 24 United States astronauts, including the crew members of space shuttles Columbia and Challenger, Apollo 1, and those who died in training and commercial airplane accidents. The memorial is a project of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation and was paid for by Florida residents who purchased special Challenger mission automobile license plates. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Flowers lay at the foot of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida before a Day of Remembrance wreath laying ceremony to honor members of the NASA family who lost their lives while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. The floral arrangement is dedicated to the Apollo 1 crew members Virgil "Gus" Grissom, Roger B. Chaffee and Edward H. White II. The memorial honors 24 United States astronauts, including the crew members of space shuttles Columbia and Challenger, Apollo 1, and those who died in training and commercial airplane accidents. The memorial is a project of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation and was paid for by Florida residents who purchased special Challenger mission automobile license plates. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Flowers lay at the foot of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida before a Day of Remembrance wreath laying ceremony to honor members of the NASA family who lost their lives while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. The memorial honors 24 United States astronauts, including the crew members of space shuttles Columbia and Challenger, Apollo 1, and those who died in training and commercial airplane accidents. The memorial is a project of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation and was paid for by Florida residents who purchased special Challenger mission automobile license plates. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Michael McCulley, former astronaut and chairman of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, speaks to a crowd gathered in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida to honor space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. NASA/Jack Pfaller
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A crowd lays roses and pays their respects space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. They gathered for a memorial ceremony in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Former astronaut and Chairman of The Astronauts Memorial Foundation Michael McCulley speaks to a crowd gathered in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida to honor space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Stephen Feldman, president of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, speaks to a crowd gathered in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida to honor space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. NASA/Jack Pfaller
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Mick Ukleja, from The Astronauts Memorial Foundation, provides the invocation in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida to honor space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida will be the site of a memorial ceremony to honor space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. NASA/Jack Pfaller
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Stephen Feldman, president of The Astronauts Memorial Foundation, left; Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, founding chair of the Challenger Center for Space Science Education and widow of space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L Commander Dick Scobee; Michael McCulley, former astronaut and chairman of The Astronauts Memorial Foundation; Bob Cabana, former astronaut and NASA Kennedy Space Center director; Rick Soria, 2009 Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award winner, and William Gerstenmaier, NASA Associate Administrator for Space Operations gather in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida to honor the Challenger crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Stephen Feldman, president of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, left; Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, founding chair of the Challenger Center for Space Science Education and widow of space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L Commander Dick Scobee; Michael McCulley, former astronaut and chairman of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation; Bob Cabana, former astronaut and NASA Kennedy Space Center director; Rick Soria, 2009 Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award winner, and William Gerstenmaier, NASA Associate Administrator for Space Operations gather in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida to honor the Challenger crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. NASA/Jack Pfaller
John Warnack, left, and June Scobee-Rodgers, widow of Challenger Commander Dick Scobee, visit the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
June Scobee-Rodgers, widow of Challenger Commander Dick Scobee, right, visits the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial with Vice President Mike Pence after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Challenger astronaut Judy Resnik’s brother Chuck and her sister-in-law Amy, visit the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
June Scobee-Rodgers, widow of Challenger Commander Dick Scobee, right, speaks with NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, left, Chuck Resnik, brother of Challenger Mission Specialist Judith Resnik, second left, and Vice President Mike Pence at the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Vice President Mike Pence visits the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial with June Scobee-Rodgers, widow of Challenger Commander Dick Scobee, right, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, left, and Chuck Resnik, brother of Challenger Mission Specialist Judith Resnik, second left, after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Astronauts Memorial Foundation President and CEO Thad Altman speaks during NASA’s Day of Remembrance ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial. The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, were honored by Kennedy employees and guests at the annual memorial event.
Sheryl Chafee, Astronauts Memorial Foundation (AMF) Board of Directors chairperson, center, accompanied by NASA Associate Administrator Bob Cabana, and Kennedy Space Director Janet Petro, lay a wreath in front of the Space Mirror Memorial during the Day of Remembrance on Jan. 26, 2023, at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the AMF, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Sheryl Chafee, Astronauts Memorial Foundation (AMF) Board of Directors chairperson, at right, accompanied by NASA Associate Administrator Bob Cabana, and Kennedy Space Director Janet Petro, lay a wreath in front of the Space Mirror Memorial during the Day of Remembrance on Jan. 26, 2023, at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the AMF, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
From left to right, Chuck Resnik, brother of Challenger Mission Specialist Judith Resnik; June Scobee-Rodgers, widow of Challenger Commander Dick Scobee; Kristy Carroll, friend of Space Shuttle Columbia pilot William McCool, daughter Vivian Carroll; Vice President Mike Pence, and NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine visit the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Retired Space Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach speaks during NASA’s Day of Remembrance ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Space Mirror Memorial. The crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other fallen astronauts who lost their lives in the name of space exploration and discovery, were honored by Kennedy employees and guests at the annual memorial event.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy deliver remarks at the Space Shuttle Columbia and Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial’s during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Keegan Barber)
The Space Shuttle Columbia and Space Shuttle Challenger Memorials are seen after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA Deputy Administrator Jim Morhard speaks during a wreath laying ceremony at the Space Shuttle Challenger and Space Shuttle Columbia Memorials as part of NASA’s Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
The Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial is seen after June Scobee Rodgers, widow of Challenger Space Shuttle Commander Dick Scobee and NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, along with others from NASA, participated in a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Friday, Feb. 1, 2013, at Arlington National Cemetery. Wreathes were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
The Space Shuttle Columbia and Space Shuttle Challenger Memorials are seen after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 27, 2022, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
June Scobee Rodgers, widow of Challenger Space Shuttle Commander Dick Scobee and NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, along with others from NASA, visit the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Friday, Feb. 1, 2013, at Arlington National Cemetery. Wreathes were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy deliver remarks at the Space Shuttle Columbia and Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial’s during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Keegan Barber)
NASA Deputy Administrator Jim Morhard speaks during a wreath laying ceremony at the Space Shuttle Challenger and Space Shuttle Columbia Memorials as part of NASA’s Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson delivers remarks at the Space Shuttle Columbia and Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial’s during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson delivers remarks at the Space Shuttle Columbia and Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial’s during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson delivers remarks at the Space Shuttle Columbia and Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial’s during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy deliver remarks at the Space Shuttle Columbia and Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial’s during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Keegan Barber)
The Space Shuttle Columbia and Space Shuttle Challenger memorials are seen after a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2015, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
NASA Deputy Administrator Jim Morhard speaks during a wreath laying ceremony at the Space Shuttle Challenger and Space Shuttle Columbia Memorials as part of NASA’s Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, the founding chair of the Challenger Center for Space Science Education and widow of space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L Commander Dick Scobee, left, and NASA Associate Administrator for Space Operations William Gerstenmaier pay their respects to the space shuttle Challenger crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery at the foot of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Dr. June Scobee Rodgers, the founding chair of the Challenger Center for Space Science Education and widow of space shuttle Challenger's STS-51L Commander Dick Scobee, and NASA Associate Administrator for Space Operations William Gerstenmaier pay their respects to the space shuttle Challenger crew members who gave their lives for while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery at the foot of the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the loss of Challenger, which broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean 73 seconds into flight on Jan. 28, 1986. NASA/Jack Pfaller
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The Patrick Air Force Base honor guard participates in the Day of Remembrance ceremony at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Space center employees and guests gathered at the Space Mirror Memorial at the spaceport's visitor complex for the annual event which took place on the 10th anniversary of the loss of the space shuttle Columbia and its crew. The ceremony also honored the astronauts of Apollo 1 and the shuttle Challenger. Dedicated in 1991, the names of fallen astronauts are emblazoned the Space Mirror Memorial's 4.5-foot-high-by-50-foot-wide polished black granite surface which reflects the sky and has been designated by Congress as a National Memorial. Image credit: NASA Television
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Kennedy Space Center employees and guests gathered at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center's Visitor Complex for the annual event which took place on the 10th anniversary of the loss of the space shuttle Columbia and its crew. The ceremony also honored the astronauts of Apollo 1 and the shuttle Challenger. Dedicated in 1991, the names of fallen astronauts are emblazoned the Space Mirror Memorial's 4.5-foot-high-by-50-foot-wide polished black granite surface which reflects the sky and has been designated by Congress as a National Memorial. Image credit: NASA Television
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The Patrick Air Force Base honor guard participates in the Day of Remembrance ceremony at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Space center employees and guests gathered at the Space Mirror Memorial at the visitor complex for the annual event which took place on the 10th anniversary of the loss of the space shuttle Columbia and its crew. The ceremony also honored the astronauts of Apollo 1 and the shuttle Challenger. Dedicated in 1991, the names of fallen astronauts are emblazoned the Space Mirror Memorial's 4.5-foot-high-by-50-foot-wide polished black granite surface which reflects the sky and has been designated by Congress as a National Memorial. Image credit: NASA Television
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- State Sen. Thad Altman, president and chief executive officer of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, speaks during the Day of Remembrance ceremony. Visible to the right is former NASA astronaut Jon McBride, chairman of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation board of directors. Space center Employees and guests gathered at the Space Mirror Memorial at the visitor complex for the annual event which took place on the 10th anniversary of the loss of the space shuttle Columbia and its crew. The ceremony also honored the astronauts of Apollo 1 and the shuttle Challenger. Dedicated in 1991, the names of fallen astronauts are emblazoned the Space Mirror Memorial's 4.5-foot-high-by-50-foot-wide polished black granite surface which reflects the sky and has been designated by Congress as a National Memorial. Image credit: NASA Television
Left to right, June Scobee-Rodgers, widow of Challenger Commander Dick Scobee, John Warnack, family friend, Lt. General Richard Scobee, son of Dick Scobee, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, Chuck Resnik, brother of the late Judy Resnik, and Amy Resnik, sister-in-law of Judy Resnik, lay a wreath at the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial as part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, February 7, 2019, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Retired NASA astronaut Eileen Collins speaks during NASA’s Day of Remembrance ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, inside the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The annual event honors the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Kennedy Space Center Director Janet Petro makes remarks during the Day of Remembrance on Jan. 26, 2023, at nearby Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Kennedy Space Center workers and guests observe a minute of silence during the Day of Remembrance at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida on Jan. 26, 2023. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
Kennedy Space Center workers and guests attend the Day of Remembrance at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida on Jan. 26, 2023. The event honored the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, as well as other astronauts who lost their lives in the pursuit of spaceflight. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbia tragedy. This year’s ceremony was hosted by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, which was founded after the shuttle Challenger accident in 1986 to honor the sacrifices of fallen astronauts each year.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Kennedy Space Center director Bob Cabana, a former space shuttle commander, speaks during the Day of Remembrance ceremony. Visible to the right is former NASA astronaut Jon McBride, chairman of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation board of directors. Space center employees and guests gathered at the Space Mirror Memorial at the visitor complex for the annual event which took place on the 10th anniversary of the loss of the space shuttle Columbia and its crew. The ceremony also honored the astronauts of Apollo 1 and the shuttle Challenger. Dedicated in 1991, the names of fallen astronauts are emblazoned the Space Mirror Memorial's 4.5-foot-high-by-50-foot-wide polished black granite surface which reflects the sky and has been designated by Congress as a National Memorial. Image credit: NASA Television