Space Shuttle Columbia: The Final Flight

In 2003, seven astronauts count down to the launch of Space Shuttle Columbia's 28th mission, unaware of the tragic fate that awaits.

A debris strike on the shuttle's left wing raises alarms at NASA. Meanwhile, the crew, unaware, continues the 16-day mission; communicating with their families through emotional video conferences.

Sixteen minutes from landing, Mission Control loses contact with the crew. As live television shows debris falling, NASA fears the worst, prompting East Texas residents to mobilize in one of America's largest search efforts.

NASA is under pressure as their flawed safety culture and management failures are highlighted in the disaster's investigation, causing uncertainty for the future of American space travel.

In 2003, Space Shuttle Columbia breaks apart in the skies over Texas. Weaving together first-hand accounts and unseen footage, this 4-part series tells the story of the disaster and it's impact on the families and colleagues of those lost.