NTSB TO ASSIST NASA IN INVESTIGATION OF THE LOSS OF SPACE SHUTTLE "COLUMBIA"

WASHINGTON, D.C. - At the request of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Transportation Safety Board is sending investigators to assist NASA in its investigation of the loss this morning of the space shuttle "Columbia".

 A team of investigators from the NTSB will leave Washington, D.C. this afternoon for Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, where NASA has established a command post.  The team will include specialists with expertise in the areas of vehicle structures and systems.

 All questions on the progress of the investigation should be directed to NASA.

NTSB Press Contacts:
Terry Williams/Ted Lopatkiewicz
(202) 314-6100