Roughly 118 tons of Challenger debris have been recovered since the accident. That represents about 47% of the entire vehicle, including parts of the two solid-fuel boosters and external fuel tank.

Far less has been recovered of Columbia — 42 tons (38 metric tons) representing 38% of the shuttle. The Columbia remains are stored in converted offices inside Kennedy’s massive hangar.

From 1986: Space shuttle Challenger explodes 'Pulse 13' coverage of the space shuttle Challenger tragedy as reported by WTVT-TV in Tampa, then a CBS affiliate. Originally aired January 28, 1986.

Far less has been recovered of Columbia — 42 tons (38 metric tons) representing 38% of the shuttle. The Columbia remains are stored in converted offices inside Kennedy’s massive hangar.

The fragment remains on the ocean floor just off the Florida coast near Cape Canaveral as NASA determines the next step. It remains the property of the U.S. government. The families of all seven ...

The Columbia remains are stored in converted offices inside Kennedy’s massive hangar. Launched on an exceptionally cold morning, Challenger was brought down by eroded O-ring seals in the right ...

The Columbia remains are stored in converted offices inside Kennedy’s massive hangar. Launched on an exceptionally cold morning, Challenger was brought down by eroded O-ring seals in the right ...