Yours truly was working at NASA, Edwards Air Force Base, California. I was secretary to the Project Director, sitting at my desk while most employees gathered in the boss’s office to watch the launch on closed circuit television. (Launches had become routine so this one was not being broadcast “live” by the networks.) From my desk, I could see the TV and was horrified to see the Challenger explode. That experience is still indelible in my mind!! The shuttle program shut down for many years; many employees lost their job.
Such a tragedy and it happened on our daughter’s 21st birthday.