👉 The infamous Challenger disaster, which occurred on January 28, 1986, highlights the catastrophic engineering failures stemming from a combination of human error, flawed design, and inadequate safety protocols. The primary engineering mistake was the failure of the O-ring seal in the right solid rocket booster's liquid oxygen tank, caused by unusually cold temperatures that rendered the seal ineffective. This failure was exacerbated by a lack of thorough testing and a culture that prioritized schedule and budget over safety, leading to a catastrophic explosion that claimed the lives of all seven crew members. This tragedy underscores the critical importance of robust engineering practices, rigorous testing, and a safety-first mindset in space exploration.
