A Space Shuttle Challenger Tile Fragment From STS-41-G

This Space Shuttle Challenger tile fragment is a piece of low-temperature reusable surface insulation, or LRSI. The tile is made of low-density silica. Each fragment measures about 6 mm x 5 mm.

Product Details

• Specimen: Fragment of an LRSI tile made of low-density silica
• Removed after: Challenger's sixth mission, STS-41-G, October 5, 1984
• Specimen size: About 6 mm x 5 mm, with shapes that vary
• Display: Acrylic jar in a glass-topped riker display case
• Includes: Information card that serves as the certificate of authenticity
• Back of tile: Red RTV 560 silicone adhesive, the main thermal protection adhesive

What an LRSI Tile Did

LRSI tiles are the white tiles of the orbiter. NASA says they protected areas that stayed below about 1,200 degrees F. Their white coating reflects sunlight.

Each tile was shaped for its exact location on the craft. The shuttle heat shield used about 24,300 tiles on each orbiter. This LRSI tile fragment came from one of them.

Challenger and STS-41-G

Challenger (OV-099) was the second shuttle to reach orbit. It flew its first mission on April 4, 1983. Its crews repaired satellites and carried Guion Bluford, the first African American in space.

NASA paperwork ties this piece to the STS-41-G mission, which flew on October 5, 1984. See more flown pieces in our Authentic Historical Artifacts.

Handling and Care

The silica is not toxic, but it is unstabilized and can powder under pressure. Wear gloves with this LRSI tile fragment, since the powder can coat fingers and irritate skin. Treat this shuttle heat shield piece with care.

About Challenger

Challenger broke apart 73 seconds after launch on January 28, 1986, during STS-51L. Seven astronauts died. A Space Shuttle Challenger tile from the STS-41-G mission is a quiet reminder of the orbiter's working years.

For More Reading from the Web

• Read NASA's account of the STS-51L accident. Challenger STS-51L Accident - NASA
• See how orbiter tiles were built and coated. Orbiter Thermal Protection System - NASA Kennedy Space Center