Bridget Reed Morawski

WMAL.com

WASHINGTON — (WMAL) They were aware of the dangers, yet they still ventured into the stars to further our knowledge of space.

Thirty years ago today, the Challenger space shuttle exploded moments over Cape Canaveral, FL., killing all seven crew members on board.

One of the crew members, schoolteacher Christa McAuliffe, was chosen to be the first private citizen to travel to space.

Friends, family, and colleagues of the crew members watched in horror as the shuttle burst into flames miles above the launchpad.

President Ronald Reagan spoke to the nation that day regarding the tragedy, a video of which has been included here.

(VIDEO: Reagan Foundation)