Associated Press Published

Challenger Learning Center to Commemorate 30th Anniversary

Wheeling Jesuit University

The Challenger Learning Center at Wheeling Jesuit University will commemorate the 30th anniversary of the space shuttle explosion that killed seven astronauts.

The event is set for Thursday evening.

Teacher Christa McAuliffe and six other astronauts died on Jan. 28, 1986, when the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded shortly after taking off from Cape Canaveral, Florida. After the tragedy, the astronauts’ families founded the Challenger Center of Space Education. Its goal is to continue the educational spirit of the Challenger mission by engaging students in science and math.

The Challenger Learning Center at Wheeling Jesuit is one of 44 worldwide. Its commemoration will include interaction with astronaut Jon McBride and former NASA scientist Chuck Wood, who worked with McAuliffe, along with learning sessions and hands-on activities.