The space shuttle Columbia disintegrated during reentry on February 1, 2003, killing all seven astronauts on board. The disaster was caused by a breach in Columbia's wing, which resulted in the shuttle's structure breaking down due to overheating. Debris from the shuttle has been recovered and is stored at Kennedy Space Center. NASA has made changes to prevent similar incidents in the future and has established a permanent exhibit to honor the astronauts who lost their lives.
