[Quilla]

At the time you witnessed these events, didn't the shuttle astronauts still have communication abilities? I can envision them being unaware of say, tiles falling off. But you'd think they could hear whatever was causing the bright flashes - explosions maybe. On the other hand, I suspect the noise level when traveling 12,500 mph is incredible.

Thank you for posting what you witnessed. I am sure you experienced a feeling that something was terribly wrong. This is so sad.

[Bob]

On the other hand, I suspect the noise level when traveling 12,500 mph is incredible.

At 12,5000 mph, the shuttle was going much faster than sound travels. Any sound from an explosion behind them wouldn't catch up to them.