FRAMINGHAM, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Thirty-four years ago Tuesday, the Space Shuttle Challenger launch, which began with such hope and promise, ended in disaster 73 seconds into the mission.
The shuttle exploded after lift-off from Kennedy Space Center, killing the seven astronauts on board—including New Hampshire schoolteacher Christa McAuliffe.
(Getty Images)
Tuesday morning, New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen commemorated the life of McAuliffe, a Concord High School teacher chosen to be the first civilian in space.
In a statement, Shaheen said, "For Granite Staters, and for teachers and educators across the United States, there will always be a special place in our hearts for Christa McAuliffe."
McAuliffe is remembered at the McAuliffe Center at Framingham State University, her alma mater. Irene Porro, the center's director, spoke with WBZ NewsRadio's Ben Parker about the center's work honoring McAuliffe.
"It's not just so much about remembering—though of course that is very important—but it is about carrying on with the work," Porro said. "How do we carry on the vision that Christa had in a new environment that is different than the one she was in? We carry on her vision in the 21st century."
Hear the full interview with Porro below.
WBZ NewsRadio's Ben Parker (@radiobenparker) reports
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