@daddles_sfo @kairyssdal I had literally the same experience (including having been in 4th grade). I was too young to really comprehend the risks of space missions, and I think I had an idealized sense of wonder about space and astronomy. I don’t recall if I cried, but I recall being confused.

When Columbia burned up in the atmosphere 17 years later, I heard it on NPR while driving, pulled over, and sat in a parking lot in shock while listening to the coverage. Definitely waterworks that time.