January 28 in American History

January 28, 1986 — the Challenger disaster

The space shuttle Challenger broke apart 73 seconds after launch, killing all seven aboard — including Christa McAuliffe, a teacher who was to be the first ordinary citizen in space. Millions of schoolchildren watched live. That night President Reagan spoke of the crew who "slipped the surly bonds of earth to touch the face of God."

Common Questions

What happened on January 28 in American history?

In 1986: the Challenger disaster. The space shuttle Challenger broke apart 73 seconds after launch, killing all seven aboard — including Christa McAuliffe, a teacher who was to be the first ordinary citizen in space.

Why is January 28 significant?

The space shuttle Challenger broke apart 73 seconds after launch, killing all seven aboard — including Christa McAuliffe, a teacher who was to be the first ordinary citizen in space. Millions of schoolchildren watched live. That night President Reagan spoke of the crew who "slipped the surly bonds of earth to touch the face of God."

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