Final Research Flight of Space Shuttle Columbia

June 27th, 1982

June 27th, 1982

Final Research Flight of Space Shuttle Columbia
How Long Ago?

42 years, 8 months, 16 days ago

Location

Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA

Category

Space Exploration

People
  • John W. Young
  • Robert L. Crippen
Links & References
Tags

Final Research Flight of Space Shuttle Columbia

NASA's Space Shuttle Columbia launched from the Kennedy Space Center on its fourth mission, STS-4, marking the completion of the shuttle's research and development phase. The mission was crucial for demonstrating shuttle capabilities and was the first to utilize a crewed landing. The astronauts aboard included Commander John W. Young and Pilot Robert L. Crippen. The successful launch was an important step towards operational missions, with a focus on testing systems and procedures necessary for future space exploration.

First crewed landing after test missions

Paved way for future operational flights

Launched with important scientific experiments

Marked end of shuttle's research phase

What Happened?

The STS-4 mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Columbia was launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, signifying a critical milestone in the shuttle program's transition from development to operational status. Launched on June 27, 1982, the mission saw a crew consisting of Commander John W. Young and Pilot Robert L. Crippen embark on a journey that would last approximately 7 days. This flight was particularly significant as it was the last of the shuttle's test flights designed to assess the spacecraft's capability to support future missions in low Earth orbit. During its time in space, Columbia completed a series of important tasks, including deploying several experiments that tested various scientific concepts, and utilizing new technologies that would be integral to later missions. The successful completion of STS-4 verified that the Space Shuttle was fully operational, allowing NASA to proceed with scheduled missions that would eventually expand human presence in space through research and the construction of the International Space Station.One of the standout aspects of the STS-4 flight was its successful crewed landing, which helped validate the shuttle's landing system designed for returning from orbit. The return not only demonstrated the shuttle's versatility but also set the stage for improved designs in various spacecraft systems, proving that orbital re-entry could be executed effectively with a reusable spacecraft.

Why Does it Matter?

The STS-4 mission is notable for its role in solidifying the Space Shuttle program's operational capabilities. It represented a successful culmination of research and development, paving the way for subsequent missions that would extend human exploration of space. This successful test helped ensure the shuttle fleet's contributions to scientific research in microgravity environments and international collaboration in space exploration.

Discover More Historic Events from June 27th

Politics & Government

Biden and Trump Debate Leads to Election Withdrawal

June 27th, 2024 0 years ago

During a highly anticipated debate, U.S. President Joe Biden faced former President Donald Trump, where key issues like the economy and foreign policy were hotly discussed. The debate turned contentious, and amid rising pressures and strategic considerations, Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 election shortly afterward, marking a significant turning point in the electoral landscape.

Continue Reading
Science & Technology

Petya Malware Cyberattacks Target Ukraine

June 27th, 2017 7 years ago

A series of cyberattacks leveraging Petya malware significantly disrupted various Ukrainian organizations and entities worldwide. The attack began impacting systems across a range of sectors, including government, energy, and finance. The malware mimicked previous ransomware and encrypted files, demanding a Bitcoin ransom. Important services and operations experienced significant downtime, contributing to a broader conversation about cybersecurity vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, particularly in a politically charged environment.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Formosa Fun Coast Fire at Water Park

June 27th, 2015 9 years ago

A dust fire exploded at the Formosa Fun Coast water park in Taiwan, resulting in 15 fatalities and 497 injuries, with 199 victims suffering critical injuries. The incident occurred during a vibrant color party, where flammable powder was being used. Witnesses reported a sudden fireball engulfing attendees amid celebratory activities.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Pipeline Explosion in East Godavari District

June 27th, 2014 10 years ago

A devastating explosion of a Gas Authority of India Limited pipeline occurred in East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, resulting in the deaths of at least fourteen individuals. The explosion happened in a densely populated area, triggering panic and extensive damage to nearby homes and infrastructure. Rescue operations were immediately initiated to assist victims and recover bodies from the debris. The incident raised questions about the safety measures in place for gas pipelines in urban regions, highlighting a need for stricter regulations and safety protocols.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

NASA launches the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph

June 27th, 2013 11 years ago

NASA successfully launched the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) space probe from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to study the Sun's interface region. This mission aims to better understand solar dynamics and the elusive mechanisms that drive solar flares and coronal mass ejections, phenomena that greatly influence space weather and potentially impact Earth.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Robert Mugabe's Controversial Re-election

June 27th, 2008 16 years ago

Robert Mugabe was re-elected as President of Zimbabwe in a highly contested election marked by widespread allegations of violence and intimidation against the opposition. Morgan Tsvangirai, Mugabe's main rival and leader of the Movement for Democratic Change, withdrew from the election just a week before, citing dangerous conditions for his supporters. Despite this, Mugabe's party claimed to have won in a landslide victory, with official results showing him leading by a significant margin. The election drew international condemnation and raised concerns over democratic practices in Zimbabwe.

Continue Reading