JUNE 4, 2008 9:30PM LAUNCH NIGHT
My name is Niles Berkley, and I am attending the night launch of the first manned mission to Mars. What follows will detail the events of that night…
The long countdown continued as, in electric anticipation, we all awaited ignition for launch. Viewed from the platform, the shuttle seemed so small and insignificant. As we were about to see, it wasn’t…
“Three! Two! One! Zero… We have liftoff!” The announcer counted as the takeoff procedure was carefully followed by all involved. After the countdown, an eruption of smoke and flame engulfed most of the shuttle in an immense shower of noxious fumes that amazed all who were spectating. Immediately, I noticed a large spark about midship, but dismissed it as unburned fumes. Almost immediately after my dismissal of the issue, the shuttle was consumed in flame and exploded with such force that even a few thousand feet away, our insides felt it. Seeing that, some screamed, some cried and more still were completely unable to make any sound.
Almost instantly, fire and rescue crews burst into action putting out flames and infiltrating the dangerous mess of debris in and around ground zero. News helicopters formed a loose circle above, everyone trying to figure out what had happened. The scaffolding type tower on one side, I’m sure meant for steadying the shuttle during launch, began to buckle inward. Directly toward rescuers. We all looked on in horror as it collapsed down onto those brave enough to enter the scene.
JUNE 4, 2008 11:09PM LAUNCH NIGHT
The authorities had ushered the crowd away towards home. As I sat with my dinner, just pushing the food around my plate, news anchors and reporters spoke about the accident with enthusiasm. It was disgusting how they reveled in the “action.”
“As a result of a system malfunction the shuttle exploded, killing the crew. Tragically, several of the rescue team were injured or killed in the aftermath. In total, 16 lives were lost and 4 were hospitalized with severe injuries and burns. In the cleanup, we suspect that more will be found. We will be back with more updates every hour.”
Bitter tears streamed down my face, falling into my food. I couldn’t stop seeing this event in my mind. Had to know how it happened. Had to prevent it from ever happening again. Filled with determination, I went to sleep.
JUNE 8, 2008 7:30AM A FEW DAYS LATER…
The next morning began my research into space travel, rocket science and the failures of past launches. I discovered that I adored the science and engineering surrounding the subject. Keeping those we lost in my mind, close, I dove deeper and deeper into my studies. I even ended up writing a letter to several universities that offered the proper classes. One university responded and that was enough to launch me on my journey. My name is Niles Berkley, and I will return to you closer to my graduation. Signing off.