04-U4D2 - Columbia Case Study Examination

CHAIRMAN COLUMBIA ACCillENT INVESTIGATION BOARD

2900 SOUTH QUINCY STREET, ARLINGTON, VA 22206

Ser CAIB/290 26 Aug 03

O'KeefeDear Mr.

On behalf of the 13 members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, I present Volume One of the final report concerning the loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia. This document is at the same time the last step in the investigation and the first critical step in our return to flight. The Board feels that the depth and breadth of this investigation has been unprecedented in NASA history; but the Board also expresses its deep regret regarding the accident that put this investigation in motion.

The Board is grateful for the continued support of the Administration, Congress, NASA, and the public during this arduous investigation process. Without it, we would not have been able to delve as deeply into the causes of the tragic loss of Columbia and its crew of seven explorers.

The Board intends for the report to stimulate debate on the future of this nation's exploration of space and to further provide a context for the difficult decisions to be made during this very important debate.

H. W. i Admiral, u.s. Navy (Reti Chairman

Columbia Accident Investigation Board

The Honorable Sean O'Keefe Administrator National Aeronautics and Space Administration Washinqton, DC 20546-0001

Respectfully