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This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/28/2022
Richard Feynman handwritten document, penned by the Nobel Prize winner during his time on the Rogers Commission, established by President Reagan to investigate the cause of the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986. Feynman's role on the Commission was unique as he was determined - with only months to live following his cancer diagnosis - to let the chips fall where they may in unearthing the true causes of the disaster. This put him directly at odds with Chairman William Rogers and President Reagan, both of whom sought to protect NASA's reputation.
Document is Feynman's notes from 15 February and 18 February 1986, with content related to inspection of the Challenger wreckage. Feynman writes in part, ''KSC [Kennedy Space Center]. Low temp reading on right hand booster @ 7 [degrees] and 9 [degrees]...Probably cold from flow off of ET which is 24 [degrees] down to -8 [degrees] from top to bottom. Wind OK direction...Get data. Ask for other flights. Drain Tank. Saw [?] graveyard...ET has pristine parts some next to charred parts - probably all broke aerodynamically and H2 burned (no explosion heard - is this significant?)''. Feynman finishes his notes with a series of ''Questions'', asking, ''For BK Davis [Billy K. Davis, ''Ice Team'' member at NASA] Is this Temp seen before? Get data 51-L and previous. Is H2 tank drained? Is 51-C fail leeward? To whom reported? Does instrument go so low?...''
Sheet measures 8.5'' x 11''. Light wear, overall near fine condition. From the estate of Richard Feynman.
Richard Feynman Handwritten Document From the Challenger Investigation -- Feynman's Detailed Notes for 2 Days When He Viewed the Challenger Wreckage
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