The Challenger disaster is one of the first major news events that I (barely) remember, so I was definitely excited for this in-depth look at the entire tragedy.

Although I haven't read Midnight in Chernobyl, I did know that it was a detailed and somewhat technical/scientific read that required concentration, so I was prepared for this invigorating read. Higginbotham clearly portrays a management and image-conscious heavy situation that was ripe for disaster, starting with the Apollo 1 fire in 1967 and ending with the Columbia shuttle disaster in 2003.

This requires some patience, but readers will be rewarded with a sharp overview and analysis of this entirely avoidable tragedy, as well as the personalities of the astronauts who perished. The tick-tock chronicle of Challenger's last moments are unforgettable.

Many thanks to Avid Reader Press/Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for a digital review copy in exchange for an honest review.

This is a must-read for space, NASA, and government readers! It's a fascinating look at the Challenger disaster investigation and the impact on families... I'd give it 5 stars except:

Way too much "flowery" language. I've never had to look up "mandarins" before this book nor used it in a sentence not involving fruit.

A little too much drama where none was needed... He (should) know that the GLS holds the countdown at 31 seconds but acted as though the launch almost occurred.

And lastly - I am VERY appalled at the detailed description of the condition the bodies were found in. It added ABSOLUTELY nothing to the story and had no value being so details.

If there's still time to edit those areas, this turns into a 5-star book.

Absolutely riveting. I could not put it down.
Even the technical descriptions and definitions were not difficult to follow, and in many cases, horrifying ng to understand.
The story of the Challenger, from the early days of the space program to the shuttle program is a fascinating read.
Anyone who remembers the ticker tape parades for John Glenn and other early astronauts, the walk on the moon and the horrific Challenger explosion, need to read this book.
It takes you through the years before Challenger and how the program got to where it was - who the outside contractors were for the rocket parts as well as who the administrators were, of both NASA and their contractors and how decisions were arrived at.
It is the story of a very brave man who chose to do the right thing and tell the story of what really happened the day before the Challenger went up and how the launch decision was arrived at.
Everything before and after the Challenger explosion is detailed precisely, chronologically and without shading.
Just a fascinating read.
Bravo to Adam H - I wish I could give this 10 stars.