Ep 7. Risks After Challenger

In season 1 episode 7 of Retro Report on PBS, titled "Risks After Challenger," the series explores the tragic events surrounding the Challenger space shuttle disaster and its aftermath.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the seven crew members of the Challenger space shuttle and the excitement surrounding the mission, which included the first-ever civilian in space, schoolteacher Christa McAuliffe. However, the anticipation quickly turned into horror when the shuttle exploded just 73 seconds after liftoff, killing all onboard.

Retro Report dives into the investigations that followed the disaster, which revealed a series of engineering and organizational failures leading up to the launch. The episode features interviews with former NASA officials and experts who discuss the impact of the tragedy on the space program as well as the broader scientific community.

Notably, the episode explores how the Challenger disaster influenced subsequent decision-making around risk and safety in the space program. Retro Report looks at the evolution of the space shuttle program, including new safety measures such as the redesign of the solid rocket boosters--which were blamed for the Challenger explosion--and a renewed focus on crew safety.

In addition to its exploration of the space program, "Risks After Challenger" also examines how the tragedy impacted public perception of science and engineering in the United States. Retro Report includes interviews with educators and experts who discuss the impact of the disaster in the classroom and the broader cultural significance of the event.

Overall, Retro Report on PBS season 1 episode 7 provides a comprehensive look at the Challenger disaster and its lasting impact on the space program and society at large. Through its interviews and in-depth analysis, the episode sheds light on the importance of examining past failures to ensure a safer and more successful future.