What Happened This Year 2005

Historical Events from This Year 2005

Space Exploration

Deep Impact Mission Strikes Comet Tempel 1

July 4th, 2005 19 years ago

The Deep Impact spacecraft collided with comet Tempel 1 to study its composition. Launched in 2005, this ambitious NASA mission sought to gather data about the interior of the comet by causing a deliberate impact with a projectile, providing insights into the origins of the solar system. The impact created a crater, allowing scientists to analyze the debris thrown into space and glean crucial information about the comet's nucleus, composition, and structure.

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Crime & Law

Terrorist Attacks on London's Transportation Network

July 7th, 2005 19 years ago

A series of coordinated explosions struck London's transport system, resulting in the deaths of 56 individuals, including the four suicide bombers. The attacks primarily targeted the underground rail system during the morning rush hour, disrupting the city and spreading fear among the populace. The bombings were executed by four men who detonated explosives in close succession, injuring over 700 others. This tragic incident was orchestrated as part of a larger narrative in the context of rising global terrorism, highlighting vulnerability in urban security.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Antonov An-24 Crash in Equatorial Guinea

July 16th, 2005 19 years ago

An Antonov An-24 aircraft crashed near Baney, Equatorial Guinea, resulting in the deaths of 60 people. The plane, operated by the Equatorial Guinea Air Force, was on a domestic flight when it encountered a loss of control and went down. Rescue operations were launched immediately following the incident, but no survivors were found among the wreckage. This event highlighted concerns regarding aviation safety regulations in the region.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Canada Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage Nationwide

July 20th, 2005 19 years ago

The Civil Marriage Act received Royal Assent, legalizing same-sex marriage across Canada. This milestone was a culmination of various legal battles and social movements advocating for equal rights. The Act allowed same-sex couples to marry, recognizing their unions with the same legal rights as heterosexual marriages. The Canadian government aimed to affirm equality and promote social justice, reflecting a significant shift in societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights.

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Crime & Law

Failed Bomb Attacks Disrupt London Transport

July 21st, 2005 19 years ago

Four attempted bomb attacks were made by Islamist extremists targeting London's public transport system. On this day, the attackers placed devices on several trains and a bus during the busy morning rush hour. The lack of proper detonation led to no casualties but significant disruption, causing chaos in the city and heightened security measures. The attempted attacks were part of a broader pattern of terrorism in the UK, with the bombers aiming to instill fear and chaos in the capital.

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Crime & Law

Jean Charles de Menezes Shot by Police in London

July 22nd, 2005 19 years ago

Jean Charles de Menezes, a Brazilian man, was fatally shot by police at the Stockwell Underground station in London. This tragic incident occurred as officers were pursuing suspects connected to the recent London bombings that had occurred two weeks earlier. The police believed him to be a potential terrorist, which led to the fatal shooting. The incident sparked considerable public outcry and discussion regarding police protocols and the treatment of individuals during heightened security situations.

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Crime & Law

Bombings in Naama Bay, Sharm El Sheikh

July 23rd, 2005 19 years ago

Three bombs detonated in the Naama Bay area of Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, resulting in 88 fatalities and over 200 injuries. The attacks targeted popular tourist locations and were part of a series of explosions across the region. The incident shocked both local and international communities and raised alarms about security in tourist areas following previous attacks in Egypt. It was a particularly brutal act intended to instill fear among both Egyptian citizens and foreign visitors.

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Natural Disasters

Severe Floods in Mumbai Result in Thousands of Deaths

July 26th, 2005 19 years ago

Mumbai experienced an unprecedented rainfall of 99.5 cm (39.17 inches) within 24 hours, leading to catastrophic flooding throughout the city. Transportation systems were paralyzed, and many people were trapped in their homes as water levels surged. As rescue efforts unfolded, it became clear that over 5,000 lives were lost due to the floods, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters in India's recent history.

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Space Exploration

Discovery Launches for First Post-Columbia Mission

July 26th, 2005 19 years ago

Space Shuttle Discovery was launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida as part of the STS-114 mission, marking NASA's first scheduled flight mission after the Columbia disaster. The mission aimed to test safety improvements and delivered supplies to the International Space Station. It featured a 12-day mission, with key tasks including the assembly and maintenance of the space station. The crew was led by Commander Eileen Collins, making her the first female commander of a Space Shuttle flight.

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