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)
A lei is seen on the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial after 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)
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 Mark Vande Hei places a flower at the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial, Friday, June 15, 2018 at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
Acting NASA Administrator Steve Jurczyk, left, watches as McCool Family Representative Kristy Carroll places a lei on the Space Shuttle Columbia 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)
NASA astronaut Doug Wheelock takes a moment after leaving his STS-120 mission patch at the memorial for the Space Shuttle Columbia 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.
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.
Kristy Carroll, family friend of the late space shuttle Columbia astronaut William McCool, places Hawaiian Leis at the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial during NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018, 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)
NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, left, helps place a lei at the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial with Kristy Carroll, center, and daughter Vivian Carroll, who were friends of Space Shuttle Columbia pilot William McCool, during 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)
Kristy Carroll, family friend of the late space shuttle Columbia astronaut William McCool, and acting NASA Administrator Robert Lightfoot lay a wreath at the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial as part of 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)
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.
NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine places a wreath at the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial with Kristy Carroll, left, and daughter Vivian Carroll who were friends of Space Shuttle Columbia pilot William McCool, during 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)
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At a special commemorative service to honor NASA's fallen heroes, Evelyn Husband-Thompson, widow of shuttle commander Rick Husband on mission STS-107, shares her memories of the day the space shuttle Columbia was lost as it returned from the mission. Husband-Thompson stands in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Kennedy marked the NASA Day of Remembrance with special ceremonies. This year the crew of Columbia was remembered in a special way on the day that marked the fifth anniversary of the Columbia accident. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
The Space Shuttle Columbia memorial is seen after 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 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 Columbia 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)
The Space Shuttle Columbia 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 Columbia Memorial is seen during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, 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/Keegan Barber)
The Space Shuttle Columbia 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 Columbia 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)
The Space Shuttle Columbia 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)
The Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial is seen during a wreath laying ceremony that was part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, 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/Keegan Barber)
The Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial is seen 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)
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)
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)
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy, and Columbia astronaut William McCool’s family friend Kristy Carroll help place a lei at the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial 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 Administrator Bill Nelson, NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy, and Columbia astronaut William McCool’s family friend Kristy Carroll help place a lei at the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial 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)
Columbia astronaut William McCool’s family representatives Jane Tani and Dan Tani, visit the Space Shuttle Columbia 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)
Columbia astronaut William McCool’s family representative Jane Tani wipes off the Space Shuttle Columbia 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)
Kristy Carroll, Family friend of the Columbia Mission, places flowers over the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial during a 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 memorial to the crew of space shuttle Columbia’s STS-107 mission is forever preserved at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana, Deputy Director Janet Petro, and United Space Alliance’s Vice President for Aerospace Services/Florida Site Director Mark Nappi placed a wreath at the Space Mirror Memorial during Kennedy’s NASA Day of Remembrance. The Day of Remembrance honors members of the NASA family who lost their lives while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery, including the astronaut crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia. Kennedy civil service and contractor employees, along with the general public, paid their respects throughout the day. The visitor complex provided flowers for visitors to place at the memorial. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
STS090-774-028 (29 April 1998) --- This view features a 13,980-foot mountain peak in Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Saguache County, photographed by crewmembers of the STS-90 Space Shuttle Columbia mission in April 1998. EDITOR’S NOTE: In June 2003, the summit was named “Columbia Point” by the U.S. Department of Interior in memory of the STS-107 Space Shuttle Columbia crew, lost in an accident on February 1, 2003, and for the scientific exploration, technical excellence, and the dream of spaceflight for which the mission stood. Columbia Point is located on the east side of Kit Carson Mountain. On the northwest shoulder of the same mountain is Challenger Point, a peak previously named in memory of the Space Shuttle Challenger, which exploded soon after liftoff on January 28, 1986.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Evelyn Husband-Thompson, widow of shuttle commander Rick Husband on mission STS-107, and her children pause in front of the memorial dedicated to the crew of Columbia who were lost as they returned from the mission. Husband-Thompson participated in the special event held to honor NASA's fallen heroes in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Kennedy marked the NASA Day of Remembrance with special ceremonies. This year the crew of Columbia was remembered in a special way on the day that marked the fifth anniversary of the Columbia accident. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Evelyn Husband-Thompson, widow of shuttle commander Rick Husband on mission STS-107, and her children place flowers at the memorial dedicated to the seven crew members of Columbia who were lost as they returned from the mission. Husband-Thompson participated in the special event held to honor NASA's fallen heroes in front of the Space Mirror Memorial at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Kennedy marked the NASA Day of Remembrance with special ceremonies. This year the crew of Columbia was remembered in a special way on the day that marked the fifth anniversary of the Columbia accident. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hei, left, and his wife Julie visit the Space Shuttle Columbia memorial, Friday, June 15, 2018 at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. 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.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Kennedy Space Center employees and guests stand for the singing of the national anthem by gospel singer BeBe Winans during the Day of Remembrance ceremony at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The annual event took place on the 10th anniversary of the loss of the space shuttle Columbia and its crew. 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
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)
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of Columbia astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool, places flowers at the Astronaut Memorial to honor the fallen crew of Space Shuttle Columbia. She joined students from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla., who also paid tribute to the Columbia crew. The students visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of Columbia astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool, places flowers at the Astronaut Memorial to honor the fallen crew of Space Shuttle Columbia. She joined students from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla., who also paid tribute to the Columbia crew. The students visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration.
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.
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)
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 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 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 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)
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)
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)
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 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 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)
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. -- Kyle Breese, playing keyboard, and Joey Beesley, singing, performed the song '16 minutes from home' during the Kennedy Space Center's Day of Remembrance ceremony. Written by Breese, the song honors the Columbia astronauts who were 16 minutes away from landing when their spacecraft broke up during re-entry 10 years ago. 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. -- 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. -- 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
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.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Students from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla., place flowers at the Astronaut Memorial to honor the fallen crew of Space Shuttle Columbia. The students visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration. They also listened to Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of Columbia astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool, and saw the 3-D IMAX film "Space Station."
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Students from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla., place flowers at the Astronaut Memorial to honor the fallen crew of Space Shuttle Columbia. The students visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration. They also listened to Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of Columbia astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool, and saw the 3-D IMAX film "Space Station."
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the KSC Visitor Complex, Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool who perished in the Space Shuttle Columbia explosion Feb. 1, talks to students from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla. The students visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration. They also visited the Astronaut Memorial, placing flowers and observing a moment of silence in honor of the fallen crew of Columbia, and saw the 3-D IMAX film "Space Station."
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Students from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla., place flowers at the Astronaut Memorial to honor the fallen crew of Space Shuttle Columbia. The students visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration. They also listened to Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of Columbia astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool, and saw the 3-D IMAX film "Space Station."
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the KSC Visitor Complex Astronaut Memorial, Jasmine Haralson (second from right), a student from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla., recites during a tribute to the fallen crew of Space Shuttle Columbia. She and other students from the elementary school visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration. They also listened to Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of Columbia astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool, and saw the 3-D IMAX film "Space Station."
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Students from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla., visit the KSC Visitor Complex. The students visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration. They listened to Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool who perished in the Space Shuttle Columbia explosion Feb. 1, visited the Astronaut Memorial, placing flowers and observing a moment of silence in honor of the fallen crew of Columbia, and saw the 3-D IMAX film "Space Station."
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Students from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla., place flowers at the Astronaut Memorial to honor the fallen crew of Space Shuttle Columbia. The students visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration. They also listened to Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of Columbia astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool, and saw the 3-D IMAX film "Space Station."
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the KSC Visitor Complex, Kirstie McCool Chadwick, the sister of astronaut William "Willie" J. McCool who perished in the Space Shuttle Columbia explosion Feb. 1, talks to students from Columbia Elementary School in Palm Bay, Fla. The students visited the Center to learn about the past, present and future of space exploration. They also visited the Astronaut Memorial, placing flowers and observing a moment of silence in honor of the fallen crew of Columbia, and saw the 3-D IMAX film "Space Station."
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a special commemorative service held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to honor NASA's fallen heroes, astronaut Eileen Collins speaks to guests gathered at the Space Mirror Memorial. Collins commanded the first shuttle mission following the Columbia accident, STS-114. Kennedy marked the NASA Day of Remembrance with special ceremonies. This year the crew of Columbia was remembered in a special way on the day that marked the fifth anniversary of the Columbia accident. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
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
Columbia astronaut William McCool’s family representatives Jane Tani and Dan Tani, right, as well as family of Challenger astronaut Judy Resnik, Chuck Resnik, left, and Amy Resnik, center, help place a lei at the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial 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, along with Columbia astronaut William McCool’s family representatives Dan Tani, left, Jane Tani second from left, as well as family of Challenger astronaut Judy Resnik, Chuck Resnik, second from right, and Amy Resnik, right, pause for a moment of silence at the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial 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)
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.
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.
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
Members of the Viera High School JROTC Honor Guard present colors 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.
NASA Associate Administrator Bob Cabana, 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.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Former NASA astronaut Eileen Collins speaks during the Day of Remembrance ceremony. She commanded Discovery on the STS-114 mission that returned the shuttle program to flight following STS-107. 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 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
Kennedy Space Center Deputy Director Janet Petro 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.
Kennedy Space Center Associate Director, Technical Kelvin Manning participates in 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.
Kennedy Space Center Deputy Director Janet Petro listens 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.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A wreath was placed at the Space Mirror Memorial by Sandra Anderson, widow of Columbia payload commander Michael Anderson, left, and Evelyn Husband-Thompson, widow of STS-107 commander Rick Husband. They were aided by NASA Associate Administrator Robert Lightfoot, partially obscured by Husband-Thompson, and Associate Administrator for Human Exploration and Operations William Gerstenmaier. Standing at the microphone, on 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
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.
Astronauts Memorial Foundation president and CEO Thad Altman addresses the audience during the NASA Day of Remembrance ceremony at the Space Mirror Memorial in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on Jan. 30, 2020. Behind Altman, from left to right, are Kelvin Manning, Kennedy associate director, technical; and Burt Summerfield, associate director, management. 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 at the annual 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.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near the Space Mirror Memorial at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, a large plaque commemorates the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia who lost their lives while furthering the cause of exploration and discovery. At left is Tara Gillam, manager of the Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity at Kennedy. Jan. 29 is NASA's Day of Remembrance observance and included a wreath-laying ceremony in front of the Space Mirror Memorial. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
Astronauts Memorial Foundation CEO Thad Altman addresses the audience during the NASA Day of Remembrance ceremony at the Space Mirror Memorial in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on Jan. 30, 2020. Behind Altman, from left to right, are Kelvin Manning, Kennedy associate director, technical; and Burt Summerfield, associate director, management. 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 at the annual 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.