Challenger The Final Flight

The new Space Shuttle program captivates America and draws a diverse, determined crop of astronauts. But safety issues arise out of public view.

Stars: William Harwood, Richard Cook, June Scobee Rodgers
Director(s): Daniel Junge, Steven Leckart
Writer(s): Steven Leckart, Glen Zipper

To revive public interest, NASA chooses teacher Christa McAuliffe to be the first civilian on the Shuttle. Issues with the solid rocket boosters linger.

Stars: Frederick D. Gregory, John Zarrella, Richard H. Truly
Director(s): Daniel Junge, Steven Leckart
Writer(s): Steven Leckart, Glen Zipper

After several delays, the crew prepares for launch as engineers and NASA officials tensely discuss concerns about the O-rings and cold weather launch.

Stars: Barbara Morgan, June Scobee Rodgers, Alison Smith Balch
Director(s): Daniel Junge, Steven Leckart
Writer(s): Steven Leckart, Glen Zipper

Challenger's shocking explosion devastates the families of the crew as well as millions watching live, and an investigation puts NASA on the defensive.

Stars: Lisa Bristol, June Scobee Rodgers, Marcia Jarvis
Director(s): Daniel Junge, Steven Leckart
Writer(s): Steven Leckart, Glen Zipper