First Space Shuttle Launch - 1981

In recognition of the final Space Shuttle mission in July 2011, here is the first Space Shuttle launch on April 12, 1981. Coverage of the Columbia launch is provided by CBS newsman Dan Rather and CBS News consultants Leo Krupp and Alan Bean. These clips were recorded off-air from WNAC-TV in Boston.

All rights are acknowledged.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• NASA
• Rockwell
• Polaroid
• Tang
• Family
• Feud
• Lyn
• Vaughn
• Asian
• Focus
• Leif
• Jensen

[airdriver]

Thirty years ago when I was a senior in high school my family got up on Sunday morning to watch this. As Columbia lifted off, we cheered loudly. As I watched the replays, I couldn't help thinking that this was the future.

Now, tragically, its part of the past.

It wasn't the politicians of either party that killed NASA, it was us.

WE, as a nation lost our will, ridiculed those who dreamed, wasted time and accomplished nothing.

[MarktgInnovation2Day]

Recognition :))

[gli7utubeo]

Alan Bean it is. Thanks for the great video!! Thumbs way up!

[wmbrown6]

The "CBS News Special Report" V/O was the late Bill Gilliand.