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Adam Higginbotham’s Perspective on Writing “Challenger”
Adam Higginbotham, known for his bestseller “Midnight in Chernobyl,” found inspiration for his latest work, “Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space,” from his vivid memories of the Space Shuttle Challenger tragedy that occurred on January 28, 1986. In an interview with collectSPACE.com, Higginbotham shared his journey in researching and crafting this compelling narrative.
Remembering the Tragedy
When asked about his recollection of the Challenger disaster, Higginbotham revealed that as a schoolboy in England, he learned about the event only late that night, sparking a deep sense of astonishment and disbelief. Despite initially not following spaceflight closely, he became fascinated with the space program as a child, particularly the shuttle missions that he witnessed on TV, including the historic STS-1 launch in 1981.
Writing Challenger: a Unique Approach
Unlike previous works on the Challenger tragedy, Higginbotham set out to provide a comprehensive nonfiction account that delves into the incident’s aftermath, revealing untold stories and shedding light on the broader context of the shuttle program’s remarkable achievements. He aimed to refocus attention on the shuttle program’s advancements and the individual stories of all seven astronauts aboard Challenger, beyond just Christa McAuliffe’s narrative.
Engaging with Key Sources
During his research, Higginbotham was fortunate to engage with primary sources, including key figures from NASA’s history. Tragically, some of these sources passed away before the book’s release, underscoring the urgency of preserving their accounts. He also acknowledged the tremendous support and assistance received from NASA officials, particularly the Chief Historian Brian Odom, whose guidance proved invaluable in capturing the essence of crucial locations and details relevant to the Challenger story.
Gaining Insights and Preserving History
By immersing himself in NASA’s historic sites and conducting meticulous research, Higginbotham was able to capture the essence of events leading up to the Challenger disaster with precision, down to the sensory details that bring the narrative to life. He emphasized the importance of preserving these historical details accurately, reflecting on the pivotal moment that forever changed the course of human spaceflight.
Challenger’s Impact and Legacy
In retrospect, Higginbotham hopes that “Challenger” appeals to a broad audience, offering a balanced blend of factual accuracy and engaging storytelling. Through his meticulous approach, he unravels the complexities of the tragedy and challenges existing narratives, providing fresh perspectives on the root causes and implications of the Challenger disaster. His work serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost and enduring bravery associated with space exploration.
“Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space” by Adam Higginbotham is now available in bookstores, inviting readers to delve into a compelling account of a pivotal moment in space history.
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