[spoiler2]

Consider how LUCKY we are, that Columbia along with it's noble occupants, came to rest on American soil, Texas no less, just a few miles from the place that gave it it's beginning.

If a shuttle were to break up over any other country, or the oceans, we would never have been this close, to carefully gather up the final remains of the crew and as much of the craft, as we have been able to. I dread to think of the abuses that would occur, in some unnamed land, by uncaring individuals, to these remains.

Seven families will have their loved one's remains to say a final goodbye to, and NASA's engineers will readily be able to examine the segments, hopefully being aided as they figure new ways to get us past these technical difficulties.

So, at this time, just take a moment to THANK THE LORD, for this small favor, that Columbia and it's crew have been returned so closely to us, without any further abuse.

[Howlin]

What a great post.

[Ramius]

Good point.

[Cogadh na Sith]

So, at this time, just take a moment to THANK THE LORD, for this small favor, that Columbia and it's crew have been returned so closely to us, without any further abuse.

Let's not get carried away...

It broke up in a re-entry to a landing in America. It was not re-entering over America by chance, fate or the direction of God. It would only have broken up over another country if it was being stolen and landed in another country in which case we would be happy the crew crashed.

[cactusSharp]

and how the pieces fell back home missing the
homers

[exhaustedmomma]

It is absolutely amazing that there have been no reports of debris hitting anybody! I also find it especially remarkable that the shuttle went down in such sparsely populated areas!! I have thought a hundred times how awful it would have been if this would have been in a largely populated area.

The woody-land between Hemphill, San Augustine and Nachodoches, coupled with the bayou country of Louisiana, will make "finding" debris a true needle in a haystack job. I have said this on another thread, but truly believe it is worth repeating: the folks that live in those regions are "hunters." They know every nook-and-cranny of the terrain... they are on a mission!! They will be a great asset, IMHO.

I know there are gators in the bayous and swamps... how about in Toledo Bend??? (gulp)

[Destro]

If a shuttle were to break up over any other country, or the oceans, we would never have been this close, to carefully gather up the final remains of the crew and as much of the craft, as we have been able to...and then to have them sold on ebay!

The Lord had nothing to do with the breakup nor would he have the parts fall on populated regions for sentimental purposes.