NASA's Day of Remembrance (January 22nd, 2026)

Quick facts
When is it?	January 23rd, 2025 January 22nd, 2026 January 28th, 2027 January 27th, 2028
Tagged as:	Historical Interest Science & Technology Space
What's the hashtag?	#NASAsDayofRemembrance
When was it founded?	2004
Who founded it?	NASA
We first published this page on:	Jun 12th, 2025
We last updated this page:	Jun 12th, 2025

Contents

NASA’s Day of Remembrance stands as a solemn tribute to the brave individuals who lost their lives in the pursuit of space exploration.

This annual observance honors the crews of Apollo 1, Challenger, and Columbia, as well as other members of the NASA family who perished while advancing the cause of discovery.

Through ceremonies and moments of reflection, NASA acknowledges its sacrifices and reaffirms its commitment to safety and mission success.

The significance of this day lies in its role as a reminder of the inherent risks of spaceflight and the importance of learning from past tragedies.

Each loss prompted critical evaluations and led to improvements in spacecraft design, operational procedures, and safety protocols.

By remembering those who gave their lives, NASA not only honors their legacy but also reinforces its dedication to protecting current and future explorers.

How to Celebrate NASA’s Day of Remembrance

NASA’s Day of Remembrance offers a meaningful opportunity to honor those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of space exploration. Here are several ways to participate in this observance:

Attend a Local Ceremony

Many NASA centers host public ceremonies to honor fallen astronauts. For instance, the Kennedy Space Center in Florida holds a wreath-laying event at the Space Mirror Memorial, which is open to visitors.

Similarly, the Johnson Space Center in Houston conducts commemorations at the Astronaut Memorial Grove. These events provide a space for reflection and community gathering.

Participate Virtually

If attending in person isn’t feasible, NASA often streams its Day of Remembrance ceremonies online. This allows individuals worldwide to join in honoring the memory of those who have contributed to space exploration.

Check NASA’s official website or social media channels for streaming details.

Visit a Memorial

Consider visiting a local space or science museum that features exhibits dedicated to space missions and astronauts.

These institutions often have memorials or displays that provide insight into the history and sacrifices associated with space exploration.

Engaging with these exhibits can offer a deeper understanding and appreciation of the individuals honored on this day.

Educate Yourself and Others

Take the time to learn about the missions and individuals commemorated on the Day of Remembrance.

Reading books, watching documentaries, or exploring NASA’s online resources can provide valuable insights.

Sharing this knowledge with friends, family, or through social media can help spread awareness and honor the legacy of those who have contributed to space exploration.

Reflect and Discuss

Use this day as an opportunity for personal reflection on the advancements and risks associated with space exploration.

Engaging in discussions with others about the importance of safety, innovation, and remembrance can foster a collective appreciation for the sacrifices made in the pursuit of knowledge beyond our planet.

History of NASA’s Day of Remembrance

NASA’s Day of Remembrance began in 2004. The agency created it to honor astronauts who died while working toward space exploration. Each year, the day is observed in late January.

This period marks the anniversaries of three major tragedies: Apollo 1, Challenger, and Columbia. These accidents deeply affected NASA and the people who support its work.

The Apollo 1 crew died on January 27, 1967, during a routine ground test. A fire broke out inside the spacecraft, killing Gus Grissom, Ed White, and Roger Chaffee. Nineteen years later, on January 28, 1986, the Challenger exploded shortly after takeoff.

All seven crew members, including teacher Christa McAuliffe, were killed. Then on February 1, 2003, the Columbia disintegrated while returning to Earth, also taking seven lives.

These heartbreaking losses changed how NASA approached safety. New procedures, stricter checks, and better training became standard. NASA leaders use this day to reflect on past mistakes and vow to keep astronauts safer in the future.

The Day of Remembrance is not only for employees. It invites the public to pause, think about the risks of spaceflight, and remember those who gave everything to help humanity reach farther. Each year, the tribute keeps their memory alive.