Since 1981, NASA space shuttles have been rocketing into orbit. The 5 orbiters - Columnbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis and Endeavour - have flown more than 130 times, carrying over 350 people into space. The shuttle was the 1st launch vehicle to lift off like a rocket, orbit the Earth as a spacecraft and then land as a glider. In addition to its many triumphs, the space shuttle made an impact with its tragedies. In 1986, the Challenger exploded on takeoff. All 7 passengers, including schoolteacher Christa McAuliffe, were killed (a memorable 8th grade event for me!). In 2003, the shuttle Columbia exploded on its return home.
NASA ended its 30-year shuttle program in July 2011. Endeavour made its final flight last week. It will become a museum piece, along with Discovery and Atlantis.
So, why am I writing this - you ask?
Because last Thursday, Regan's 1st grade class waited outside to watch the shuttle fly overhead. They never saw it - as it left Houston's Ellington airport and headed West.
But, as I later reflected, what does the shuttle actually mean to Regan? It is a puzzle piece on her transportation puzzle.
