The final transmission from Francis Richard Scobee, confirming his craft was ready for a throttle increase, occurred just seconds before the catastrophic structural failure of the Space Shuttle Challenger. This event, which took place during the 1986 STS-51-L mission, ended the career of a seasoned pilot who transitioned from an engine mechanic to a commander of orbital spaceflight.
Military Foundations and Early Service
Born in 1939 in Cle Elum, Washington, Scobee graduated from Auburn Senior High School in 1957. He began his service in the United States Air Force as a reciprocating engine mechanic stationed at Kelly Air Force Base in Texas. During this period, he attended San Antonio College. In 1965, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Arizona, having secured an officer's commission. He subsequently completed flight training in 1966 and served as a combat aviator throughout the Vietnam War, receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal.
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After his combat service, Scobee graduated from the USAF Aerospace Research Pilot School in 1972. His career as a test pilot included operating various platforms such as the F-111 Aardvark, the C-5 Galaxy, and the experimental X-24B lifting body. Selected for the NASA Astronaut Corps in 1978, he completed his training the following year. Prior to his first orbital mission, he performed duties as an instructor pilot for the 747 carrier aircraft used by the shuttle program.
Spaceflight Missions and Legacy
Scobee first flew in space as the pilot of the STS-41-C mission in April 1984, which focused on satellite repair and deployment. He was later appointed commander for the STS-51-L mission. During the ascent on January 28, 1986, the shuttle suffered a failure of a solid rocket booster O-ring, resulting in the destruction of the vehicle. Scobee, who held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, was interred at Arlington National Cemetery. In 2004, he was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and inducted into the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame.
Fast facts
- Born: 1939, Cle Elum
- Died: 1986, Cape Canaveral
- Military Rank: Lieutenant Colonel
- Education: University of Arizona, U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School
- Notable Awards: Congressional Space Medal of Honor, Distinguished Flying Cross
- Burial Site: Arlington National Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What were Dick Scobee's final words during his last mission?
His last recorded communication was, 'Roger, go at throttle up,' in response to a call from CAPCOM.
Did Scobee have experience with the Space Shuttle before the Challenger mission?
Yes, he served as a pilot on the STS-41-C mission in 1984, where he helped deploy and repair satellites.
Achievements
- United States Astronaut Hall of Fame
- Affiliated with National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Educated at University of Arizona, U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and Auburn Senior High School
- Worked as military officer and astronaut
