I was a Navy journalist stationed at the Naval Education and Training Center, Newport, Rhode Island, at the at the time; upon exiting a photo lab that day, I was told of the accident. I was 21 ... . I made a promise to myself from then on to do what I can to help humanity explore space in whatever way I can. |
It brought a sense of reality to policy makers concerning the capabilities of the shuttle. The accident also showed the need for a large organization, such as NASA, to remain flexible, open-minded and diligent in face of the all-too-likely tendency to become complacent about operating a complex machine. |
We have a long way to go because space exploration and science are not really priorities in American society. But we can continue to fight the good fight and promote education, scientific research, and intelligent plans to explore the solar system and universe with both people and machines. |