Feb 2 1986
From The Space Library
Initial investigation, and tape review of the Challenger accident, pointed to the right solid fuel rocket booster and showed a leak near one of its seams. An apparent rupture between two sections of the rocket emitted flames that soon found their way to the external fuel tank, igniting the volatile contents.
Meanwhile, salvage operations recovered two large objects believed to be part of the Shuttle from the ocean floor, but most of the craft was still unaccounted for. NASA planned to bring in a recovery vessel equipped with a remote-controlled robot and cameras. (WSJ, Feb 3/86; NY Times, Feb 3/86; W Post, Feb 3/86)
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