For Immediate Release
January 29, 2009
Contact:
Aketa Marie Simmons
202-226-6709
Cleveland's NASA Glenn Research Center Commemorates Loss of Astronauts
WASHINGTON, DC – Today is an especially sad day for Cleveland and the scientific community at large. The three tragic missions in NASA's history occurred between Jan. 27 and Feb. 1, in different decades. The destruction of space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, and the launch pad fire of Apollo 1 are on everyone's hearts and minds.
"I can remember all three incidents clearly. The entire nation grieved together then and we will all observe the moment of silence now. My sincerest thoughts and condolences go out to the families, friends and colleagues of those who had the courage to explore," said Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-OH)
Cleveland's NASA Glenn Research Center will observe a minute of silence at 12:59 p.m. today. The heavy silence will commemorate the loss of the 17 astronauts and "all other members of the NASA family who have lost their lives in the pursuit of knowledge." Jeff Woytach will give a presentation called "Space Heroes."
Woytach will repeat the presentation at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7. Both events are free and open to the public. Visitors may also view the astronaut memorial wall.
For more information on attending the presentations and the space explorations of the Challenger, Columbia, and Apollo 1, please, click here.
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