[meyer]

Do you think NASA knew this was going to happen and decided to keep the crew in the dark? Or do you think they underestimated the problem? If its the former, then it is unforgivable. If the latter, then it is understandable.

Personally, I think they either underestimated the situation or it simply wasn't a situation.

I don't work for NASA, but I've worked in both Federal and private sector jobs - Frankly, I don't see this happening. NASA isn't like the local welfare office - these people are a special breed. They are among those few government agencies that deeply care about what they are doing.

[P-Marlowe]

Ditto.

They won't underestimate these problems in the future. You can bet the next time a piece of foam comes off on launch that they will immediately send up another Shuttle to check it out and mount a rescue if necessary. They will not be sending up anymore Shuttles unless and until there are two ready for launch.