Space Documentary: The Space Shuttle Columbia Disaster

The Space Shuttle Columbia disaster was a tragedy that took place on February 1, 2003. On its 28th mission, Space Shuttle Columbia broke apart during re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere, killing all seven crew members aboard. The disaster was caused by damage to the thermal protection system on the leading edge of the shuttle's wing, which was caused by a piece of foam insulation that broke off during liftoff and struck the wing. The damage allowed hot gases to penetrate the wing during re-entry, causing the shuttle to break apart. The Columbia disaster was a turning point in the history of the space shuttle program and led to changes in the way NASA approached shuttle safety and mission planning.