Introduction
This case study reviews the loss of the NASA Space Shuttle “Challenger” STS Mission 51-L in 1986, when it exploded shortly after launch, resulting in the deaths of all seven astronauts on board. The research looks at the causes of the accident, the structural and mechanical factors involved, other contributory factors, and the findings of the Investigation Board.
The Research Causes of the Accident. The main cause was found to be a failed O-ring seal in the right side Solid Rocket Booster (SRB), resulting from exceptionally low ambient temperatures at launch (“Space Shuttle Challenger Disaster”, updated Feb 2013). ...
