Challenger History

On January 28, 1986, the seven crew members of the Space Shuttle Challenger set out on a mission to broaden educational horizons and promote the advancement of scientific knowledge. Tragically, the crew of the Challenger shuttle died on the morning of January 28, 1986 when a booster engine failed, causing the shuttle to break apart just 73 seconds after launch.

In the aftermath of the Challenger tragedy, the crew family members’ families resolved to create a living memorial to the Challenger crew: a space science education center where teachers and students could use state-of-the-art technology and space-life simulators to “explore space” as they apply mathematics, science and technology skills in a workplace of the future.

The result was the Challenger Learning Center concept, a national network of educational facilities containing highly interactive simulations of living and working environments in space. The Centers are focused on several critical long-term goals of national value and impact:

• Promote enthusiasm for the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) studies
• Improve knowledge and problem-solving skills
• Teach participants to work in teams, use communication skills, and think critically

There are now over 40 Challenger Learning Centers located in school districts, museums, science centers, and college campuses across North America and beyond.