Remembering the Launch of Space Shuttle Columbia's STS-61-C Mission

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On January 12, 1986, the Space Shuttle Columbia lifted off from Kennedy Space Center on the STS-61-C mission, just weeks before the tragic Challenger disaster. This article reflects on that final successful shuttle launch before the catastrophic events that would unfold later that month.

Why it matters

The STS-61-C mission was the last successful Space Shuttle flight before the Challenger disaster, which shook the nation and led to major changes in NASA's safety protocols. Remembering this launch provides important historical context around one of the most significant events in the history of the U.S. space program.

The details

The STS-61-C crew included commander Robert L. 'Hoot' Gibson, pilot Charles F. Bolden Jr., and mission specialists Steven A. Hawley, Franklin R. Chang-Diaz, and George D. 'Pinky' Nelson. The shuttle lifted off at 6:55 a.m. EST on January 12, 1986, clearing the launch tower without incident. The mission lasted six days before Columbia landed safely back on Earth.

• The STS-61-C mission launched on January 12, 1986.
• The mission was the final successful Space Shuttle flight before the Challenger disaster on January 28, 1986.

What’s next

The launch of the STS-51-L mission, which would tragically become the Challenger disaster, was scheduled to follow shortly after the successful STS-61-C flight.