Challenger's First Space Mission Launch
April 4th, 1983
April 4th, 1983
How Long Ago?
41 years, 11 months, 11 days ago
Location
Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA
Category
Space Exploration
People
- Robert Crippen
- Charles D. Gemar
- John Young
- George Nelson
- Francis Scobee
Links & References
Tags
Challenger's First Space Mission Launch
Space Shuttle Challenger launched on its maiden flight, STS-6, from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A team of five astronauts, including Commander John Young and Pilot Robert Crippen, successfully orbited Earth, conducting various experiments. This launch marked a significant milestone in NASA’s Space Shuttle program, showcasing advancements in space technology and operations.
First flight of Space Shuttle Challenger.
John Young commanded the mission.
Mission duration was over five days.
Included the first spacewalk by a shuttle crew.
What Happened?
Space Shuttle Challenger lifted off for its first flight, designated STS-6, on a mission that would pave the way for many subsequent space endeavors. The launch occurred from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, at precisely 12:30 PM EST. The mission was commanded by veteran astronaut John Young, a two-time Apollo Moon veteran, with Robert Crippen as the pilot. They were joined by three mission specialists: George Nelson, Francis Scobee, and Charles D. Gemar. The primary goal of STS-6 was to deploy the PANSAT satellite and to test various systems of the shuttle, including the heat shield and payload bay doors.During its mission, Challenger spent over five days in space, conducting scientific experiments, capturing stunning images of Earth, and testing new technologies. It was notable for its extensive workload, including the performance of the first extravehicular activity (spacewalk) by a shuttle crew. The mission returned to Earth on April 9, having completed 79 orbits around the planet and landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California. STS-6 demonstrated the operational capabilities of the shuttle and set the stage for future missions, expanding our understanding of space travel and research in microgravity.
Why Does it Matter?
Challenger's successful maiden voyage was a crucial stepping stone for NASA's Space Shuttle program, which represented a new era in human space exploration. The mission showcased the shuttle's multifunctional capabilities, laying the groundwork for future missions that would contribute to scientific advancements and space station construction. It highlighted the importance of reusable spacecraft in reducing costs and improving access to space.
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