Twenty-seven years ago today, America witnessed the tragic explosion of the space shuttle Challenger.
Delayed by almost a week, the shuttle mission on Jan. 28, 1986, was especially momentous, as it marked the launch of President Ronald Reagan's Teacher in Space Project. Concord, NH, teacher Christa McAuliffe was onboard the shuttle to become the first civilian teacher in space.
A little more than a minute after launch, the shuttle exploded and broke apart, killing all seven crew members onboard. Later reports revealed that a faulty O-ring had been the cause of the distaster.
Millions of Americans watched the tragedy unfold on TV, including many students because of McCauliffe's role in the mission.
Where were you during the Challenger launch and subsequent disaster? Did you watch it on TV, or hear about it afterward?
Discuss in the comments below.