This commemorative button was created in memoriam of the STS-51L crew of the Space Shuttle orbiter Challenger, which was lost during launch on January 28, 1986. Although the button does not state that it was memorial, the inclusion of the quote about bravery -- and listing a launch date without a landing date -- suggests that it was created after the launch, which was postponed several times, changing the launch date. Buttons like this allowed the public to express their mourning for the very public deaths of the crew.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

MEMORABILIA-Popular Culture

Dimensions

2-D - Unframed (H x W): 8.9cm (3 1/2 in. dia.)

Materials

Zinc plated steel, plastic film, paper

Inventory Number

A20010687000

Credit Line

Found in collection. Donor unknown at this time. Found on NASM premises.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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