Columbia

I have always been fond of Columbia. I went to the US Space Academy in Huntsville two times. My first time I was assigned to the Columbia team. I took pride in that association. The only IMAX movie I enjoyed, without feeling nauseous, was "Hail Columbia". We saw it just before our mission. Maybe it rubbed off because we were named the best mission of the session. I was *damned* proud of that moment. Even a high school friend getting the Right Stuff award later couldn't dampen that one bit.

As a some twist of irony, I was there at Cape Canavarel over Christmas when Columbia was on the launch pad. I was disappointed I couldn't get a good view of the orbiter from the observation deck, just the tips of her rocket boosters. I even remember asking about a t-shirt for the Columbia mission, out of nostalgia, but they were still selling the previous Atlantis mission.

I remember Challenger. God, I remember that day. I was in high school at the time, a sophomore. I learned the news and sat there in shock. Space shuttles didn't blow up. They just didn't. Then I saw the footage and the reactions of the crowd below when they made the announcement. I remember the way everyone sat watching the first mission after Challenger, praying and worrying.

Damnit, they still shouldn't blow up!

*breaks down crying*

Worlds grow old and suns grow cold
And death we never can doubt.
Time's cold wind, wailing down the past,
Reminds us that all flesh is grass
And history's lamps blow out.
-- "Hope Eyrie", Leslie Fish