NG-21 Resupply Mission Honors Challenger Commander Dick Scobee

It is Northrop Grumman’s tradition to name each Cygnus spacecraft in honor of individuals who have made substantial contributions to human spaceflight. NG-21, the upcoming Cygnus resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS), is now officially named the S.S. Francis R. “Dick” Scobee. Scobee is a former NASA astronaut whose contributions to aeronautics and space exploration have left a lasting legacy. The mission will launch no earlier than Saturday, August 3rd from Cape Canaveral.

Francis Richard “Dick” Scobee’s career is a testament to his dedication and versatility in the field of aerospace. Born on May 19, 1939, in Cle Elum, Washington, Scobee began his illustrious journey by enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1957 as a reciprocating engine mechanic. Determined to advance his career, he attended night school and earned a bachelor of science degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Arizona. His academic achievements were complemented by his practical skills, leading to his selection as a pilot.

Scobee quickly earned his pilot’s wings and served a tour in Vietnam. His return to the United States saw him stationed at Edwards Air Force Base, where he distinguished himself as a test pilot. Over his career, Scobee logged over 6,500 hours of flight time in 45 different aircraft, showcasing his adaptability and expertise in handling a wide range of aviation technology.

In 1978, Scobee’s career took a significant turn when he was selected to join NASA’s astronaut candidate class. His role at NASA was multifaceted: he served as an instructor pilot for the Boeing 747 shuttle carrier airplane and eventually became the pilot of STS-41C, a mission on which he logged 168 hours in space. His contributions to this mission demonstrated his exceptional skills and dedication to advancing human space exploration.

Tragically, Scobee’s career and life were cut short on January 28, 1986, when he served as the commander of the Challenger spacecraft for the STS-51-L mission. The Challenger disaster, which occurred shortly after launch, claimed the lives of Scobee and his six crewmates. The loss was a profound blow to the space community and the nation, highlighting the inherent risks of space exploration.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions and sacrifice, Dick Scobee was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor in 2004 by President George W. Bush. The award citation highlighted his “meritorious and dedicated service to the nation and his pioneering contributions to human space flight.”

Northrop Grumman’s decision to name the NG-21 Cygnus spacecraft after Scobee is a fitting tribute to a man whose career spanned the breadth of aeronautics and astronautics. Scobee’s legacy is preserved not only through his contributions to space missions but also in the hearts of those who continue to be inspired by his dedication and passion for aerospace.

Other notable individuals honored by Northrop Grumman for Cygnus resupply missions include Sally Ride, the first American woman in space; Deke Slayton, one of the original Mercury Seven astronauts; Alan Bean, the fourth person to walk on the moon; Roger Chaffee, who perished in the Apollo 1 fire; John Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth; and John Young, who flew on six space missions.

Each of these names represents a chapter in the story of human space exploration, and Dick Scobee’s chapter is one of bravery, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to advancing the frontiers of space. As the NG-21 mission prepares for launch, it carries with it the legacy of a true pioneer and a reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of knowledge and exploration.