Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

> The best scenario is that they had their last drops of oxygen around hitting the sea; in other scenarios they died from lack of oxygen before hitting the sea.

See [0] for a summary. It appears that at least one unidentified crew member activated the air pack for Smith (the pilot) but not Scobee (the commander). Smith operated some switches after the break-up so was certainly conscious. The crew compartment was tumbling but not so fast as to cause blackouts.

[0] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_Shuttle_Challenger_disas...



Here is the link to add on the Personal Egress Air Packs, and a crew member activating Smiths PEAP

[0]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Personal_Egress_Air_Pack


Note that the Challenger crew were not wearing Launch Entry Suits like those shown in the photo.

They were dressed in what amounted to nylon jumpsuits and motorcycle helmets.




Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: