July 20,1969 was a defining moment in American history as it marked the accomplishment of landing on the moon for the very first time. However, getting to that point took decades of work, hundreds of thousands of dedicated hours with some of the world’s smartest people, and a considerable number of lives. That’s why every January, NASA—the National Aeronautics and Space Administration—recognizes those who lost their lives in the pursuit of science and progression.
On the last Thursday of January—this year falling on the 26th, NASA’s Day of Remembrance recognizes the brave souls who put their lives on the line to further the country’s space exploration program. The day was officially recognized in 2004 and the timing was chosen to pay homage to three of NASA’s most tragic incidents—that of Apollo 1, which occurred on January 27, 1967, the Challenger shuttle disaster on January 28, 1986, and the loss of the space shuttle Columbia on February 1, 2003.
In recognition of the day, we’ve highlighted books and media from our collection, both physical and digital, to read more about these amazing journeys and honor the lives that were lost. |
