STS-107

STS-107 was a space shuttle mission by NASA using the Space Shuttle Columbia, launched January 16, 2003. The seven-member crew was killed on February 1, 2003, when the shuttle disintegrated during reentry into the Earth's atmosphere. The cause for the accident was a piece of foam that broke off during launch and smashed a hole in the left wing. During reentry the damaged wing slowly overheated and came apart, eventually leading to loss of control and total disintegration of the vehicle. (For more on the accident, see Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.)

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Space shuttle: The Space Shuttle, part of the Space Transportation System (STS), is an American spacecraft operated by NASA for orbital human spaceflight missions. The first of four test flights occurred in 1981, which were followed by operational flights beginning in 1982. The system is scheduled to be retired fr...

NASA: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), which was established in 1958, is the agency responsible for the public space program of the United States of America. It is also responsible for long-term civilian and military aerospace research....

Space Shuttle Columbia: Space Shuttle Columbia (NASA Orbiter Vehicle Designation: OV-102) was the first space shuttle in NASA's orbital fleet. Its first mission, STS-1, lasted from April 12 to April 14, 1981. On February 1, 2003, Columbia disintegrated during re-entry on its 28th mission; all seven crew members aboard were...

STS-107 related Images and Photos (experimental)

Spiral Staircase at Baroque Monastery Church of Sts Peter and Paul

The Madonna and Child enthroned with Sts John the Baptist Bartholmew and Catherine

Madonna in Glory with the Christ Child and Sts Francis and Alvise with the Donor (Gozzi Altarpiece)