Apollo 1
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Tomorrow, Jan. 27, is the 50th anniversary of the launch pad fire that killed the Apollo 1 crew, Gus Grissom, Ed White, and Roger Chaffee. What was supposed to be a routine systems test became a funeral pyre when a flash fire fueled by the pure oxygen inside the Apollo roared through the capsule interior. Subsequent investigations revealed significant design flaws and faulty procedures. This resulted in a complete redesign of the Apollo capsule and revamped rules and regulations.
So, take time Friday at 6:31 PM (23:31 UTC) to pause and remember these three brave men. Overshadowed by the later shuttle accidents they do not get the recognition they so richly deserve and have earned.