This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American
Twenty-seven years ago today space shuttle Challenger exploded shortly after takeoff from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, killing all seven crewmembers onboard. Among the victims of the 1986 disaster was astronaut Ronald McNair, who two years earlier had become the second African-American in space.
McNair lived only 35 years, but he amassed quite a résumé in that time. In addition to earning a spot in the astronaut corps, he attained a black belt in karate and received a Ph.D. in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, according to his NASA bio.
A new video from StoryCorps, an oral-history nonprofitthat broadcasts stories on NPR, reveals McNair as a uniquely driven individual, even before any of those accomplishments. The astronaut’s brother, Carl McNair, recorded a few anecdotes from their upbringing during Jim Crowin 1950s South Carolina, recalling Ronald as a strong-willed dreamer. The three-minute animated video that accompanies Carl’s story—a warm tribute to his astronaut brother—is embedded below.
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.