[ America in Space ]

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STS-8 (Flight # 8) 30 August - 5 September 1983

Challenger (3)

Crew:
    Richard H. Truly [2], Commander
    Daniel C. Brandenstein [1], Pilot
    Dale A. Gardner [1], Mission Specialist
    Guion S. Bluford, Jr. [1], Mission Specialist
    William E. Thornton [1], Mission Specialist

Launch:
    Pad: 39-A (8)
    Date: 30 August 1983
    Time: 06:32:00 UTC

Orbit:
    Altitude: 191 nm
    Inclination: 28.5 degrees
    Orbits: 98
    Duration: 6 days, 1 hour, 8 minutes, 43 seconds
    Distance: 2,514,478 miles

Landing:
    Location: Runway 22, Edwards Air Force Base, CA (7)
    Date: 5 September 1983
    Time: 07:40:43 UTC
    Rollout: 50 seconds (2,856 meters, 9,371 feet)

Highlights:
    Bluford became the first black American to fly in space. A satellite for India was deployed. Six rats were also aboard the shuttle.