One should keep in mind the the Space Shuttle is the most complex machine ever built and that the stress on any equipment going into or coming back from space is enormous. It is a wonder that only two out of over one hundred flights with the shuttles have failed, and a impressive demonstration of the skills of American engineers and workers.
It will happen again, but this doesn't mean that flights into space should not be undertaken. It will remain a risky undertaking for decades to come, one that attests to the courage of those who pushes the frontier in space.
[This message has been edited by C-H (edited 02-01-2003).]
