[MadIvan]

What I find incredible is that apparently no one can say how long the shuttles were intended to last in the first place.

Regards, Ivan

[Don Munn]

Ivan

They reported on CNN that each shuttle had a flight life of 100 missions.

[Movemout]

"What I find incredible is that apparently no one can say how long the shuttles were intended to last in the first place. "

The shuttles have exceeded the "first place" design life expectations. The question has been evaluated more than once in recent years. The airframe has been judged to be more robust than originally thought. The "guts" have been almost continually upgraded over the years to take advantage of technology improvements. Alas, perfection is still out of reach.

[Redleg Duke]

In the midst of this tragic day, may I offer this.

The American Space Program, in the 40 years it has existed, has lost 17 astronauts in spaceflight-related activities. Three in Apolo 1 on the pad, 7 on Challenger and now apparently 7 on Columbia.

How many pioneers were lost exploring and settling North America?

Space, the Final Frontier, is a harsh environment. Exploring and conquering it will be dangerous. Few have been lost, but many, many more will be if we, the Human Race, is to continue to reach and achieve.

We must pause, reflect and honor these latest "Pioneers" who have paid the ultimate price, but in their honor, we must pick up where they left off and continue Mankind's Journey!

My Two-Cents worth.